NINE people arrested in connection with a serious assault have all been released under investigation pending further enquiries.

The victim was a 37-year-old man. He was reportedly repeatedly punched and kicked by a group of youths at the Old Steine, Brighton.

The incident happened on Monday at about 2.43am.

He was taken to Royal Sussex County Hospital for treatment and was discharged the same day.

The nine people were arrested in Black Lion Street shortly after the incident, on suspicion of committing grievous bodily harm.

They are seven men from Brighton and Hove, aged between 18 and 23, a 19-year-old man from London and a 22-year-old woman from Hove.

He was initially thought to be homeless, but police confirmed the victim lives in Portslade.

Police also said this incident is not believed to be connected to the murder investigation launched following a serious assault on a rough sleeper at Royal Pavilion Gardens on August 7. He died in hospital.

Anyone with any information about the latest incident is asked to report it online or call 101, quoting serial 99 of 20/08.

Alternatively, you can visit the Crimestoppers website or contact the independent charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.