POLICE are appealing for witnesses to a Christmas Eve attack which left three men with facial injuries following a night out in Hereford.

The incident happened at around 2.15am outside Jones Bootmaker, after the victims had left Saxty's on Widemarsh Street.

The men were approached by a large group of people, predominantly men, and an alleged assault took place on one victim within the group of friends.

The situation escalated and two other men are believed to have been assaulted by the larger group.

Two men received minor facial injuries and a third man receiving serious facial injuries following the attack.

It is believe that the attackers made off towards Maylords once they were aware police were attending.

Police would like to speak to a number of people who may be able to assist with investigations.

This includes a white man, around 5'5" tall with brown hair and stocky build, wearing a white shirt under a black jacket who was described as attempting to diffuse the situation.

Also they would like to speak to a white woman, around 5'2" and of slim build, wearing dark trousers and a leather jacket who was also seen trying to diffuse the situation.

Officers are also keen to speak to another white man, approximately 6'2" tall with brown hair and of stocky build, wearing a white shirt and a third white male wearing a blue shirt, dark blue jeans and trainers.

It is believed a couple of bystanders may have observed the fight taking place before leaving in a taxi and there were a number of taxi's parked up who could have Dash-cam footage available.

If anyone witnessed the incident or has information that may prove useful to investigations, please contact police on 101 and quote incident number 79s of 24 December.

Alternatively, if you do not feel comfortable speaking directly to the police then you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 08005 55111 or online via their website.