Rugby players were left with serious injuries following an attack in Congleton.

Congleton RUFC have provided an update after two of their players were attacked on Swan Bank over the weekend.

Blindside flanker Nathan Beard was left with two black eyes and facial injuries, while second row Alfie Tideswell was knocked to the floor, hitting his head.

The 28-year-old was taken to Macclesfield District General Hospital where he was found to have a small bleed on the brain, a concussion and a broken jaw.

A spokesperson for the club said: "All of us at Congleton RUFC and I'm sure Nathan, Alfie, and their families are very touched by the amount of support we've had for our Bears.

"We've had loads of messages from people inside and outside of the rugby community, so we'd like to take the opportunity to say thank you for all your messages of support and well wishes."

Sharing an update on Alfie on Tuesday afternoon, they added: "I went up to see him and the family at Macclesfield Hospital last night and he was in great spirits (although he wasn't a fan of his 'cone of shame' they made him wear before going for another CT, but gave us a giggle watching him try and drink his Ribena with it on!)

"He's still his usual cheeky self which was great to see, albeit with a very swollen and sore jaw and unable to eat anything aside from soup and a smidge of porridge.

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"He will be sent up to Wythenshawe Hospital later today to look at options for sorting out his jaw.

"We are hopeful he'll be back home soon and able to make the most of the festive period with everyone despite what has happened.

"Again, thank you all so much for your messages of support. I know it means a lot to the boys, their families and their loved ones, and also means a lot to us at Congleton RUFC that the local community is behind us."

Cheshire Police has launched a public appeal for information.

DS Steve Kaminski said: "I'd urge anyone who witnessed the assault or has any information on the identity of the suspect, to contact us.

"We have an injured man needing medical care just before Christmas.

"If you can help, please contact us."

Anyone with information should contact Cheshire Police on 101 or via www.cheshire.police.uk/tell-us quoting IML 1990174. 

Alternatively, information can be passed on anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.