Shutdown after men found unconscious

CITY CENTRE ROAD CLOSED FOLLOWING ‘AWFUL ASSAULT’

POLICE closed off a major city- centre road for several hours following a serious assault which left two men unconscious.

An expansive cordon was put in place in Market Street after two men, aged 41 and 42, were found unconscious at around 4.30am on Saturday.

It has been reported the victims were allegedly assaulted by a group of men.

Both are in hospital, one being treated for a head injury, but the extent of their injuries is not yet known.

Residents and shoppers expressed their shock at the scene of the incident.

Richard Plant, who was visiting the city for the day and lives in West Bridgford, said: “There seems to be a lot more violence.

“It is a bit distressing really, it has escalated. It’s a shame to see.”

Another resident, John Beckett, said: “It is not very good to see.

“The businesses here did not need this. It is a big shame.”

And a man who moved from London to live in Nottingham, but asked to remain anonymous, added: “I come from London and for some people they see these things all the time. It is just unfortunate to see. “You hear it on the news all the time.” Three men, aged 18, 19 and 22, were arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm and remain in custody.

Shops along Market Street were unable to open while investigations took place with police escorting staff who needed to access their premises.

Detective Sergeant Lee Cattell, from Nottinghamshire Police, said: “Two men have been left needing hospital treatment after this awful assault.

“Officers remain on scene and are conducting thorough inquiries to understand the circumstances around this. When we receive reports like this, it will always elicit a swift police response and as such three men were arrested within minutes of the reported attack.

“Local officers were in the area providing reassurance and to talk to anyone with concerns or information. We would urge anyone who witnessed the incident or has any further information to get in touch on 101, quoting incident 131 of August 28.”