POLICE have released a harrowing image of a Ramsbottom assault victim in a bid to prompt potential witnesses to come forward.

The picture shows Ian Kennedy, 46, lying unconscious in Salford Royal Hospital, where he has remained in a critical but stable condition since he was attacked 12 days ago.

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The attack took place at around 6.15pm on Saturday, September 12, in an alley to the rear of the Mason Arms Pub in Bolton Road West.

The victim was punched once, causing him to fall back and hit his head on the ground.

Police have subsequently arrested four men - aged 25, 22, 20 and 22 - who have been bailed until Monday, November 9.

Despite these arrests, detectives are still hoping people who witnessed the attack will come forward to assist them with their enquiries.

Detective Inspector Stuart Wilkinson said: “I am now appealing directly to those people who witnessed the attack.

“We know there are people out there who saw what happened, but they have not yet come forward.

“I ask these people to look at the picture of poor Ian, who has been lying incapacitated for 12 days, and search their consciences.

“What if this was your brother, your father or your son?

“You would want people to help.

“Please do the right thing and help us catch the man or men responsible for this awful attack.”

Anyone with information regarding the assault is asked to contact police on 0161 856 63400, 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.