POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a man was assaulted in two separate attacks in Harwich.

The first attack happened near the Royal Oak pub in High Street at around 1am on Saturday when he was assaulted by a gang of about five other men.

The victim, in his 20s and from Harwich, continued walking along High Street and was attacked again a short time later near to the USA fried chicken takeaway.

He said during the second attack, he was headbutted by one of the men involved in the first assault.

The victim suffered face injuries, including a badly sprained jaw, but did not go to hospital.

Investigating officer Pc Debbie Jakeman said the group of men involved in the attacks were travelling in a white van.

She also wants to hear from anyone who saw what happened as well as witnesses to an incident in which a shop window was smashed at the same time as the assaults.

A 25-year-old man, from Dovercourt, was arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage to a shop window and a 21-year-old man, from Harwich, was arrested on suspicion of assault. Both have been bailed until November 21.

Anyone with information should call Pc Jakeman at Clacton CID on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.