Man sought for questioning after Southport assault leaves victim with permanent sight damage

Detectives investigating reports of a serious assault in Southport have issued CCTV images of a man they would like to speak to.

In the early hours of Sunday 2 August, a 39-year-old man was at The Avenue Bar on Scarisbrick Avenue.

He left the premises alone when it is believed he was followed by three unknown males.

At around 4.45am he was found collapsed in the hallway of his home in Southport covered in blood.

He was taken to hospital where he was found to have suffered serious facial injuries including a severe laceration to his right eye which will leave his sight permanently affected.

He also had a suspected fractured eye socket, fractures to his head and skull and bruising to his body.

An investigation is underway and witness and CCTV enquiries have been carried out.

A 40-year-old man from Bootle has been arrested on suspicion of s18 wounding with intent. He has been bailed pending further enquiries.

We have issued images of a man officers would like to speak to as they believe he could have information which is vital to the investigation.

Detective Inspector Keith Swift said: “The man has suffered life changing injuries, and it is vital that we establish what has taken place.

“I would ask anyone who was in The Avenue bar between 12 midnight and 1am on Sunday 2 August who saw or heard anything or has any information to assist our investigation to get in touch.

“I would also ask who recognises the male pictured to contact us as we believe he could assist with our enquiries.”

Anyone with information should contact Merseyside Police social media desk using X or Facebook @MerPolCC. You can also report information via our website: https://www.merseyside.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/ or by calling 101 quoting incident reference 2600062816.

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their website here: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/forms/give-information-anonymously In an emergency always call 999.