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Police promise robust action following violent assault in Leatherhead

Submitted: 27/07/2010 13:49:26

Police promise robust action following violent assault in Leatherhead

Detectives are warning robust action will be taken following a violent assault in Leatherhead on Sunday (25 July) evening.

Officers were called to Red House Gardens following an outbreak of violence, which occurred between 6pm and 7pm, in which a 26-year-old sales assistant was hit on the head with a hammer.

It is believed the incident started after an altercation broke out between a group who were enjoying a team-building BBQ and up to eight others who had approached the group.

The suspects, including two people in wheelchairs, then left the scene but a short time later one of them returned and hit the victim over his head with a hammer.

The suspect is described as a white man, of slim build, approximately 5ft 10’ tall, aged between 16 and 18 with dark cropped hair. He was wearing jeans, a light coloured T-shirt and possibly a checked shirt over the top.

The victim, a man from Croydon, was treated at Epsom General Hospital for a small cut to his head. His injuries are not life threatening.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Nicola Finlayson said: “I cannot stress how seriously we are viewing this incident. This type of assault is totally unacceptable and we simply will not tolerate violence of this kind.

“It was a very warm evening on Sunday night and I am sure there would have been lots of people enjoying the late sun in the recreation park. It is vital we trace everyone who was there as they may have vital information which will further my investigation.

“Officers were on scene within minutes but the suspect had quickly fled. With your help we can identify the person responsible for this assault and ensure he is brought to justice.”

The Leatherhead Safer Neighbourhood Team will be carrying extra high visibility patrols in the area reassuring.

Leatherhead Neighbourhood Sergeant Simon Cox said: “Leatherhead is a great place to live and it is such a shame that one mindless person spoilt a balmy Sunday evening for the rest of the community. However, by working together, we can ensure the person responsible is robustly dealt with.”

Officers still need to trace a number of people who may have information or may have witnessed something on Sunday evening which could help the investigation. Some people have already made themselves known to police, but there may be others who have information which can help explain or enable police to uncover exactly what happened.

If you do have information, or saw what took place, please contact investigating officer Detective Constable Nicola Finlayson at Surrey Police on 0845 125 2222 quoting reference MV/10/3199 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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