A MAN is in a critical condition in hospital after being assaulted in Royston. The 24-year old, who comes from the town, was attacked in the early hours of Sunday on Newmarket Road, and sustained a broken jaw and serious head injuries. He was initially ta

A MAN is in a critical condition in hospital after being assaulted in Royston.

The 24-year old, who comes from the town, was attacked in the early hours of Sunday on Newmarket Road, and sustained a broken jaw and serious head injuries.

He was initially taken to the Lister hospital in Stevenage, but was subsequently transferred to the Royal Free Hospital in Hampstead, London, which is a specialist facility for dealing with head injuries.

Police said today that his condition is critical, but not thought to be life-threatening.

The attack took place between 1.30am - 2am on Sunday morning, near the old Priory cinema site.

It is believed that there was verbal altercation between the victim and three other men, believed to be in their 20's. Following this, the victim fell to the ground, sustaining his injuries.

Detective constable Laura Talbot, from Hertfordshire Police, is investigating the incident.

She said: We are appealing for anyone who has any information about this incident or anyone who witnesses the altercation take place to come forward.

"If you can help, please call the non-emergency number on 0845 33 00 222 quoting crime reference G4/10/64. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, quoting the same reference. All calls will be treated in the strictest confidence," she said.

*A 24-year old man from Royston has been arrested in connection with this offence and is currently on police bail.