A MAN was seriously assaulted in front of a large crowd in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Cops are now hunting for the attacker who struck in Saltcoats's Dockhead Street at around 12.25am on Sunday.

The 45-year-old victim became involved in an altercation with another man who then seriously assaulted him.

The suspect was wearing a black hooded jacket, jeans and white trainers.

Detective Sergeant Martin Prendergast, from Saltcoats Police Office, said: “Enquiries have been carried out in the area and officers are continuing to appeal to any witnesses or information that will assist their investigation into this attack, and identify the man responsible.

“Initial enquiries have revealed that there was a large crowd of people in Dockhead Street who witnessed this crime take place, however, many had left on police arrival. I would urge any witnesses, or anyone with information who has not yet spoken to officers to contact Saltcoats Police Office through 101 quoting reference number 0133 of 22nd April. Alternatively Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.”