Detectives are appealing for witnesses and information following an assault in Hitchin.

The incident occurred around the grounds of St Mary's Church, at around 3am on Christmas Eve on Saturday, December 24.

A group of males were reportedly involved in an altercation, during which a 21 year old man was physically assaulted and injured.

Four males were arrested on suspicion of ABH and affray and have been released on police bail while enquiries continue.

Detective Constable Richard Christian, from the Case Investigation Team, said: "This was a nasty and prolonged assault which left the victim requiring hospital treatment. Our investigations are continuing to establish the circumstances around what happened.

"CCTV enquiries have established that a number of people were in the area at the time, some of whom made attempts to intervene, and I'm appealing for any witnesses to please come forward. Any information at all could assist us as the case progresses."

Anyone with information is asked to please email [email protected]