POLICE have issued a fresh for appeal for witnesses to an incident where a man helping out at Topsham Rugby Ground on bonfire night was glassed in the face. A 22-year-old needed part of his nose stitched back on after a cowardly attack at the firework cel

POLICE have issued a fresh for appeal for witnesses to an incident where a man helping out at Topsham Rugby Ground on bonfire night was glassed in the face.

A 22-year-old needed part of his nose stitched back on after a cowardly attack at the firework celebrations. The man, from Honiton, was working as a volunteer at the event.

Detective Constable Suzanne Vranch, of Exeter CID, said: "The victim had experienced problems with a group of youths during the evening and confronted them about their disorderly behaviour.

"He asked them to stop rocking on a fence that displayed sponsor boards, however, one of the group members began to swear and make threats towards the victim."

Det Vranch said the victim was then hit in the face with a glass bottle by one of the group members.

She added: "The male offender then made off across the field towards the main entrance of the club and onto Topsham Road.

"The victim was taken to hospital and had to have eight stitches in total to his nose.

"This is a cowardly attack that has taken place at a popular annual social event.

"It is believed several people will have knowledge of this incident, or may have even witnessed it. We desperately urge for these individuals to come forward and assist the police in their enquiries."

Anyone who witnessed the glassing or who has any information is asked to contact Det Con Vranch on 08452 777444, quoting crime reference DE/09/12260.