DETECTIVES are appealing for information following an assault on a 31 year old man in the Ross Street area of Belfast in the early hours of this morning, Tuesday, 18 July.

At approximately 2.00 am as the victim was walking along the street he was assaulted by four males.

During this assault part of his ear was bitten off and a tooth was also knocked out.

He attended hospital for treatment to his injuries.

Detective Sergeant Michael Hawthorne would appeal to anyone who may have witnessed this assault to contact Detectives at Musgrave Criminal Investigation Branch on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference 154 18/07/17.

Alternatively, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.