A 47-YEAR-OLD man was taken to hospital after a suspected hate crime attack in a Tyne Valley town.

At around 8.55pm yesterday (Wednesday), police received a report of an assault on Victoria Terrace, Prudhoe, where it was reported a man had suffered facial injuries after being attacked by another male.

The victim was taken to hospital as a precaution and an investigation has since been launched, said a Northumbria Police spokesperson. "Officers are currently treating the incident as a suspected hate crime and inquiries are ongoing."

Anyone with information that may assist the police investigation should contact officers on 101 or online quoting log 1170 170321.

Northumberland County Councillor Gordon Stewart, who represents Prudhoe South, said: "Prudhoe is a very safe place, and such incidents are extremly rare. I am in contact with the police and also the victims family.

"I would urge anyone with information about this or any other crime to contact the police or crime stoppers."