Man badly beaten in Downpatrick attack

A man has been badly beaten, punched in the head and struck across the leg with an iron bar, in what police say was a “vicious attack” in Downpatrick.

The assault happened in the Ballymote Park area just before 5pm on Thursday, when the victim – aged in his 30s – was approached by two men.

PSNI Detective Constable Kenny said: “The victim tried to run away but, when the two caught up with him, was badly beaten.

“This was a vicious attack, which has left a man badly shaken.

“It’s fortunate the injuries sustained are not more serious, as we could easily have been looking at a very different picture.”

Police are appealing for witnesses to contact them on 101.

“I am appealing to anyone who was in the Ballymote Park or Killough Road area and who may have witnessed the chase or assault to get in touch,” DC Kenny said.

“We’re particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have spotted a white vehicle, being driven in a suspicious manner, in that area in the early evening.”