A 35-year-old man needed 32 stitches to his face after he was viciously attacked in an alley way.

The victim, who had enjoyed a night out with friends, was walking by the alley way on Boundary Road (near to the Lingholme Health Centre) at about 11.30pm on Saturday, August 12, when he saw what he thought to be a scuffle. He went to help out, but when he got there he was faced by at least four men who attacked him before running off.

The victim, who comes from Southport, received 32 stitches to his face and was told by medics that the wounds had been caused by a "bladed instrument".

Anyone who may be able to help the police with their inquiries regarding this incident can contact DC Keith Hill at St Helens CID on 0151 777 6063, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.