THIS is the gang police are searching for in an attempted murder probe in Southampton.

Robert Holden was left fighting for his life after the main artery in his neck was severed – leaving the 29-year-old needing emergency surgery.

Mr Holden could have died as a result of his injuries, but he survived and has since been recovering at home.

He was attacked outside The Encore pub, Commercial Road, in the early hours of Saturday, July 22, with police releasing new CCTV images today.

The nature of his injuries were so severe, Hampshire Constabulary is treating the matter as attempted murder.

Information suggests that after the victim was assaulted, the group made their way to Harbour Parade and took a coach to the North Terminal train station at Gatwick Airport before boarding a train that travelled through London, Hertfordshire and finally terminating in Bedford.

In the new images released by Hampshire Constabulary, a number of key witnesses police wish to speak have also been identified.

Several vehicles passed by the incident and the occupants of one car got out and helped.

A couple were also captured on CCTV walking along Commercial Road around the time of the incident.

Previously, footage was shown of a group walking down Bedford Place towards the pub 10 minutes before the incident happened.

Detective Constable Marsha Brown said: “We believe these men get off the train in central or north London and we have been carrying out extensive and complex enquiries to trace them.

“We are now in a position to release these images and ask the public to assist in identifying them.

“We want to hear from anyone who may know these men

to come forward and speak with us.

“They are all quite distinctive and I believe someone knows who they are. If you recognise any of them, get in contact.

“Furthermore, we want to hear from anyone who may have seen this group on the coach to Gatwick or on a train in the early hours of Saturday, July 22.”

At the time of the incident, Detective Inspector Adam Edwards said: “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.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact 101 and quote Operation Evasion or 44170281379.

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