A YOUNG man, who police say was on his "first night out in St Helens", needed facial surgery after being beaten by three thugs, it has emerged.

The attack happened in Westfield Street close to car park at the roundabout. Police and paramedics found the 24-year-old man with serious injuries to his face and he was taken to hospital.

Detective Constable Victoria Grant, said: "This was a really nasty and unprovoked attack on a young man who had been enjoying his first night out in St Helens. The man has been left really upset by the incident and has had to undergo surgery for his injuries.

"It is possible someone might have seen the incident or one of the people involved. Any information provided will be thoroughly investigated and could lead us to identifying the offenders."

The attack happened at 3.30amon Sunday, July 12, but police waited three weeks until they released a public appeal for witnesses.

One of the attackers was described as white, in his early 20s with short dark hair and wearing a white t-shirt.

Detective Constable Victoria Grant, said: "This was a really nasty and unprovoked attack on a young man who had been enjoying his first night out in St Helens. The man has been left really upset by the incident and has had to undergo surgery for his injuries.

"Although the assault took place in the early hours, it is possible someone might have seen the incident or one of the people involved. Any information provided will be thoroughly investigated and could lead us to identifying the offenders.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.