POLICE investigating a serious assault at a pub in Oldham which left a man with serious facial injuries have released images of two men they want to speak to in connection with the incident.

Two men were drinking in the Royal Oak Hotel on Oldham Road, Failsworth at around 1.15am, on October 13, when they were approached by a man not known to them.

The man engaged them in conversation and left, before returning with a number of other men.

This group of men then began throwing punches and using drinking glasses as weapons against the two victims.

One was struck to the right of his face with a glass.

He fell to the floor, where he continued to be assaulted by the offenders, sustaining serious facial injuries that required surgery.

The other man was struck and suffered a 4cm open cut that required stitches.

The group of offenders then fled the pub in an unknown direction.

Detective Constable Rothwell from GMP’s Oldham Division said: “This was a violent assault against two men who were simply trying to enjoy a quiet drink in the pub.

“There is no saying that individuals who act in this manner won’t assault someone in future – perhaps with even more grave consequences.

“We’ve released images of two men who we think can assist us with our enquiries. If you recognise them, or have any information, please contact police as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 8972 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.