A 28-year-old man has been charged to court following a violent incident in Newcastle on Saturday afternoon, 3 January, which left a traffic attendant with serious injuries.

The assault occurred shortly before 4.00pm on Main Street. A member of the public reported seeing a traffic attendant, a man in his 30s, being attacked. The victim stated that a man bumped into him as he was leaving an off-licence and became verbally abusive. Fearing for his safety, the attendant activated his body-worn camera, at which point the assailant swung a plastic bag containing bottles at his face.

The attendant suffered a deep laceration and several facial fractures in the attack. The suspect fled the scene but was identified shortly after with assistance from the local community. Police located the man at a nearby licensed premises, where he reportedly became aggressive and assaulted four officers during his arrest. He has since been charged with grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent, resisting police, disorderly behaviour on licensed premises, and five counts of assault on police.

Describing the attack as "appalling", a police spokesperson said: "It's appalling that a man going about his lawful business should be attacked in this way.

"We know this type of incident can have a negative impact on those who live in the town, and will be maintaining our proactive policing presence in the area.

"Our enquiries are ongoing and we would appeal to anyone who witnessed the assault or who may have footage, including dash-cam, to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 901 03/01/26.

"Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org/ ."

The defendant is due to appear before Downpatrick Magistrates' Court today, Monday 5 January 2026.