Thugs beat up reveller

DETECTIVES are appealing for witnesses after a 25-year-old Hailsham man was seriously assaulted on New Year s Eve in the George Hotel in George Street, Hailsham.

The man, who is married with two children, was discovered in the gents toilet by one of his friends at 10.45pm being repeatedly kicked and punched in the head and upper body by two youths. The man called for help and pulled the offenders off the victim.

Detective Sergeant John Cousin, of the East Downs Investigation Team, said: 'This was a vicious attack on an individual who was intent on enjoying the final hours of 2001 with his friends and close relatives. What transpired was far from that.

'He remains in a semi-conscious state in hospital with serious injuries and bruising to the brain. I would urge anyone who heard or saw anything on New Year s Eve in or around the George Hotel in the centre of Hailsham to contact Crimestoppers anonymously and in total confidence.

'Callers will not be asked their name and any information provided will be taken seriously. If members of the public think they have anything which may be of use- no matter how insignificant they consider it is I would plead with them to call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 without delay.

The two offenders fled the scene immediately and they are described as being 17-19 years old, wearing padded jackets and baseball caps. Police believe they were in the public house between 9.30pm and 9.45pm with two other men and two women, and detectives are keen to trace these individuals.

The victim, who has not been named, is to have further tests carried out over the next few days.