DETECTIVES hunting a gang who almost beat a man to death in Ipswich today launched a poster appeal as part of their attempted murder inquiry. The 27-year-old man from Edmonton, London, sustained serious head injuries early on Christmas Eve after he was attacked while making his way to the Ipswich Village car park in West End Road, at the rear of Zest nightclub.

DETECTIVES hunting a gang who almost beat a man to death in Ipswich today launched a poster appeal as part of their attempted murder inquiry.

The 27-year-old man from Edmonton, London, sustained serious head injuries early on Christmas Eve after he was attacked while making his way to the Ipswich Village car park in West End Road, at the rear of Zest nightclub. It is believed a group of ten to 15 men were responsible for the brutal assault.

A 23-year-old Ipswich man had been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, but he has now been released without charge.

In a bid to get vital witnesses to come forward, police officers will be distributing posters in the area this week.

Detective constable Jim Booth said: “We are appealing to anyone who was in the car park or the area of West End Road in the early hours of Christmas Eve to come forward.

“The town was particularly busy with people who had been celebrating the festive period on Friday night through to Saturday morning.

“Zest nightclub had closed around 4am and we know people were congregating in the Ipswich Village car park which is situated behind the club.

“Equally groups of people tend to drive around the Cardinal Park area of Ipswich and meet up with friends in nearby car parks, we want to hear from any of these people who may have noticed the attack taking place.

“The victim remains in hospital today and is being treated for his injuries, it is not known at this stage what the outcome of his injuries will be, although the signs are that he is beginning to make an improvement.”

If you can help the inquiry telephone Dc Booth at Ipswich CID on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800555 111.