DETECTIVES are issuing an appeal for witnesses after a man was slashed across the face and neck leaving a wound that needed 27 stitches.

The 32-year-old man was attacked in Sherdley Park at a dance music festival just after 10.30pm on Saturday (September 13).

Emergency services were called and found a man with an injury caused by a “sharp instrument” say police.

The victim has since been discharged from hospital.

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Unsworth said: "This was a serious attack and the victim needed required 27 stitches to close the wound. At this stage of the investigation we believe the victim was approached from behind by the offender and assaulted. The assault occurred inside the central white tent.

"This type of behaviour will not be tolerated and I would like to reassure the community that we will do everything possible to identify the person responsible.

"The incident took place during the music festival being held in the park and it is likely lots of people saw the incident or have some really important information for our enquiries.”

Anyone with information is urged to call St Helens CID on 0151 777 6804 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.