A MAN underwent emergency surgery after having his chin bitten off in a sickening attack in Southampton.

Doctors faced a race against time to sew back the piece of flesh after it was packed in ice and rushed to hospital by a police officer.

Today detectives issued an urgent plea for witnesses to the horrific assault, which happened in the Woolston area on Saturday afternoon. Police revealed a fight had taken place through the streets minutes before the agonising injury occurred.

It is understood the row, which began in Radstock Road and ended in Bridge Road, was sparked by a dispute over a car. Around six people - one of Asian appearance and the others white - were involved.

The 38-year-old victim, who has not been named, was rushed to Southampton General Hospital by ambulance after the attack around 5.15pm. Police said his missing piece of chin was picked up from the pavement and wrapped in ice from a nearby pub before also being rushed to hospital by a uniformed officer.

It is not known if surgery to repair the large wound proved successful as the victim later discharged himself from hospital.

One other man also suffered head and facial injuries in the fracas Det Con Keith Bailey, of Bitterne CID, said the incident was being treated as racially motivated due to offensive remarks shouted by some of the participants.

"This was a very serious assault which we believe was racially motivated," said Det Con Bailey, leading the investigation.

"We are keen to speak to anyone who was in the area at the time and either saw or heard anything which could help our inquiry."

Two men arrested in connection with the attack have been released on bail pending further police inquiries.

Anyone with information should call Bitterne CID on 0845 045 4545 or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555111.