A MAN from Northern Ireland is in a critical condition in hospital following a serious assault in Liverpool city centre.
It is believed that the 24-year-old man was walking down Bold Street towards Hanover Street with three friends when they were assaulted.
Seven men have been arrested in connection with the incident, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Unconscious
Just after 1am, emergency services were called to Bold Street after reports that a man was unconscious on the floor near to Central Station.
Officers raced to the scene and gave first aid until paramedics attended.
The man was taken to hospital where he is being treated for serious head injuries and remains in a critical but stable condition.
Arrests
A 40-year-old man from Pontypridd, South Wales, was arrested on suspicion of Section 18 assault and possession with intent to supply Class A drugs.
Six other men, aged between 33 and 41 and from South Wales, have also been arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs in relation to suspected cocaine found in a hotel room.
Appeal
Despite the arrests, detectives are keen to speak to any motorists or taxi drivers from the nearby Hackney cab rank on Hanover Street, in case they have vital dashcam footage.
“Although several arrests have been made, our investigation continues and we’d still like to speak to anyone who witnessed the incident or has any CCTV, dashcam or other information,” Detective Chief Inspector Paul Parry.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Merseyside Police, quoting reference 21000567116.
You can also pass information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
