A 'COWARDLY' attack saw a man struck over the head with a glass bottle in the early hours.

The victim, a 54-year-old man, was walking along Bartholomew Street heading towards Newbury town centre on Thursday when he was approached from behind at around 2.30am.

He was knocked unconscious when he was hit on the head and had to be rushed to North Hampshire Hospital in Basingstoke.

The man has since been discharged, but he required stitches to his face.

Police have arrested a 26-year-old man from Newbury on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and he has been released under investigation.

Investigating officer, police constable Laura Harrhy based at Newbury police station, said: "I am appealing for anyone who witnessed this incident to come forward, as they may have information vital to our investigation.

"The victim has been left shaken and requiring hospital treatment following this cowardly attack."

Anyone with information should contact the Thames Valley Police non-emergency telephone number, 101, quoting reference 43180203404.

Alternatively they can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.