POLICE investigating a serious assault outside a Southampton pub have released more CCTV images of people they want to trace.

Robert Holden, 29, of Southampton, was attacked with a broken bottle outside the Encore Pub in Commercial Road. His carotid artery was severed in the incident and he was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Police are renewing their appeal for witnesses and information following the assault on July 22.

Detective Inspector Adam Edwards, leading the investigation, said: “We can now release CCTV footage of five people we want to trace seen to be walking down Bedford Place towards Watts Park, 10 minutes before the incident.

“We believe one of these men is the man in the CCTV footage we previously released.

"We are continuing to appeal for the identity of the man, and the members of the group he was with. Do you recognise them?

“We also have images of two couples walking along Commercial Road as the incident is happening and also a man. We also want to trace these people as we believe they are key witnesses and are yet to come forward.

“This was a very serious assault.

"The victim had to undergo emergency surgery as the wound inflicted had cut through a main artery in his neck, putting his life at serious risk. It could have had fatal consequences, however he is now recovering well.

“I am urging anyone who witnessed this incident to come forward. Please call 101 and quote 44170281379.”

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers and leave information anonymously on 0800 555 111.