Man fights for life after pier attack

4:50pm Thursday 28th August 2008

A reveller is fighting for his life after he was attacked in a nightclub while celebrating his mother’s birthday.

The 20-year-old was drinking with a group of friends in Atlantis on Eastbourne Pier when he was punched in the face.

He fell back, banged his head when he landed and momentarily lost consciousness.

Moments after coming round, he left the venue with his girlfriend and some of his friends at about 2am on Thursday.

On Friday, he went to Eastbourne District General Hospital suffering from head pains.

He was immediately admitted to hospital and transferred to Hurstwood Park Hospital Neurological Centre in Haywards Heath.

Detective Inspector Ian Williams, from Eastbourne CID, said police believed the victim and attacker were among the same group of friends.

He said: “The victim had a minor argument with his girlfriend in a pub earlier in the evening and we believe the attacker had taken umbrage to what had occurred between the couple.

“That resulted in an argument between the two men and we believe the victim suffered his head injuries from banging his head when he fell. This is an unprovoked attack which has left a man seriously injured.

“Although we have spoken to a number of people known to each other, we need independent witnesses who can give some clarity to how this happened.

“The lesson to be learned is if people suffer a head injury and feel unwell, they should always seek medical treatment.”

Officers were examining CCTV footage and interviewing staff at Atlantis and other town centre pubs.

A 28-year-old man from Eastbourne has been arrested on suspicion of causing grievously bodily harm. He has been bailed until October 16.

Anyone who saw the couple arguing or the attack should call DI Williams on 0845 6070999 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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