Police are on the hunt for two suspects following a brutal attack that closed a popular Old Town road for hours. 

The High Street in Old Town was closed for several hours after emergency services swarmed the area. 

Police have now confirmed that a 50-year-old man was punched in the head, knocking him unconscious and leaving him with potentially life-changing injuries. 

He is currently in Great Western Hospital for treatment. 

As It Happened: High Street closed after incident breaks out

The assault took place outside the Old Town Kebab House in High Street, Old Town, shortly before 7pm.

It is thought that the victim may have been talking to two males in the Kebab shop before one of them assaulted him.

The two suspects, who were riding pushbikes, are described as wearing dark clothing with hoods. Both are thought to be older teenagers or in their early twenties - one a white male and the other described as black.

They were seen to cycle in the direction of Marlborough Road.

An eyewitness at the scene at the time reported that the street was "all closed off" and "someone said there had been a fight".

It is believed that members of the public, including staff from nearby businesses rushed to help the victim and provide first aid. 

A crime scene was put in place and guarded by several police officers, and forensic investigators were observed to arrive there at roughly 9.50pm on Friday evening. 

The cordon was lifted and the road reopened at around 11.15pm. 

Police are now investigating the shocking incident and believe that a number of people would have been in the area who can help with their enquiries. 

Detective Sergeant Craig Rathbone said: “We urgently need to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time. We are also asking anyone who may have driven past and have dashcam footage or CCTV from the location is also asked to contact us as a matter of urgency.

“This was a particularly concerning attack which resulted in serious injury. Old Town at that time in the evening was busy and it is likely that there are a number of potential witnesses who have yet to contact us. Please don’t hesitate - it is vitally important that we identify those responsible.”

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting log  54240047899

Alternatively, people can leave information anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.