A YOUTH was attacked with a stiletto and subjected to another assault minutes later after a night out in Exeter city centre.
The 17-year-old victim is recovering at home after needing hospital treatment for head injuries sustained during the incident in the early hours of Sunday morning.
The teenager had attended Arena nightclub and left at about 3am. A few minutes later it is believed he was attacked by a female with a sharp-heeled shoe that caused cuts to the back of his head.
As he sat recovering on benches near the entrance to the Guildhall with a friend, five men emerged from Cathedral Yard and he was assaulted again. It is believed the assaults are linked.
CCTV footage that has been obtained by the Echo shows one of the men break away from the group and run towards the victim.
He continued to attack the teenager on the ground before being pulled away.
The victim, a student at Exeter College who has asked not to be named, said he felt lucky not to have suffered any long term damage.
"The majority of my injuries were caused by the stiletto," he said. "I have cuts to the back of my head, a black eye, cuts all down the side of my face and bruises all over my neck and face.
"It could have been worse. I have been very lucky. I spent all night in hospital and have been really shaken up by it. It has shocked me."
Investigating officer PC Mike Baker said: "The victim had already been subjected to an alleged assault by a female that caused him head injuries. As he comes away it appears the group may have recognised him again. One male was seen to run towards him where he carried out a further assault.
"If anyone has any information, maybe even someone from the group, that could assist our enquires I would urge them to get in touch. We hope the four friends may have a bit of a conscience and get in touch.
"There would have been a lot of people on foot who may recognise the group or any of the individuals.
"We like to think that at this time of night in a busy city centre the public can help provide us with the information required for a successful prosecution."
Contact PC Baker with any information on 101 quoting crime reference number DE/13/6730.
