DETECTIVES are trying to trace three people who could be vital witnesses to a vicious assault in Southampton at the weekend.

A 48-year-old man was left unconscious on the pavement opposite St Mary’s fire station following the incident in the road at about midnight.

Police now want to speak to a woman and a couple who went to the aid of the man in the early hours of Sunday.

Detective Constable Howard Broadribb said: “This was Saturday night, when many people would have been returning home or visiting nearby fast food outlets.

“We need to hear from these three people and anyone else who witnessed the assault.”

Anyone with information can contact DC Broadribb on 101 or leave information with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

l Przemyslaw Dalke, 26, of St Mary’s Road, Southampton, has been charged with causing grievous bodily harm and appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court yesterday.