POLICE have made a fresh appeal for witnesses to a New Year's Day assault, which left a Southampton man fighting for his life, to come forward.

Phil Clayton, 51, suffered severe head injuries in an incident outside Netley Central Sports and Social Club in Station Road, Netley Abbey, as he left a party.

Today he was still being treated for his injuries in intensive care at South-ampton General Hospital where a spokesman described his condition as stable.

The boilermaker from Woolston, Southampton, was leaving a 200-strong party when the incident happened.

Three men aged 24, 32 and 42 were arrested and bailed on suspicion of grievous bodily harm.

Anyone with any information which could help police inquiries is asked to contact Det Sgt Phil Jones at Hedge End CID on 0845 045 4545.