Man hurt during fight still 'critical'

A man in his 20s remained in a critical condition in hospital today after suffering serious head injuries during a fight in Market Drayton town centre.

The man, named locally as Gavin Finch, was taken by ambulance to the North Staffordshire University Hospital in Stoke-on-Trent on Tuesday afternoon following the incident, which happened at about 4pm outside the Fruit and Shake cafe in Queen Street.

He is understood to have fallen to the ground during the altercation and hit his head, suffering serious injuries.

Richard Ewels, West Mercia Police spokesman, said today: "The victim remains critical in the multiple injuries unit at the hospital.

"Detective Inspector Mick Homden, who is leading the investigation, has renewed his appeal for any witnesses to come forward and contact Shrewsbury police on 0300 3333000."

Mr Ewels added two men who were arrested on suspicion of assault and taken to Shrewsbury Police Station for questioning have now been released on police bail pending further inquiries.

Police believe that there will be a number of witnesses to the incident because the town centre would have been busy with shoppers at the time.

Detective Inspector Homden said: "The victim was knocked to the ground and received serious head injuries.

"We are anxious to speak to anyone who saw any part of this fight."