Man seriously injured in Hailsham attack

A man received serious injuries following an attack outside a Hailsham pub in the early hours of Sunday morning.

It is believed that the 52-year-old victim had left the pub to intervene in a dispute outside The Corn Exchange in Hailsham High Street at around 1.30am. In doing so, he received a serious injury to his face and neck. It is not clear what caused the injury at this stage, but detectives believe that it may have been some form of bladed item, which is now being searched for.

Police and ambulance services were quickly on the scene and the man was taken to the Eastbourne District General Hospital where he remained on Sunday morning.

Detectives investigating the assault have named a man who they wish to speak to in connection with the incident. He is 29-year-old Lucas Lamb from Hailsham who is described as white, 5' 8", of medium build with dark brown hair and blue eyes. He was wearing a blue shirt.

Police would also like to speak to the driver of a BMW, possibly grey or silver coloured, which drove away from the scene shortly after the incident occurred. He is described as white, mid to late 20s, 5' 8"-5' 9", of large build and wearing a black vest top, blue jeans and a gold chain. He has tribal tattoos over both shoulders and arms and has a V-cut hairstyle.

Detective Inspector Mark O'Brien from East Sussex CID said: "We have no reason to believe that the people involved are a danger to the general public and it seems that the incident may well have been between men who were known to each other. Police are keen to speak to anyone who may have information leading to the location of Lucas Lamb or the identity of the driver of the BMW.

"If you saw the incident, have any information about it or know or recognise the descriptions of those involved, please contact Sussex Police on 101 quoting serial 146 of 13/05. Alternatively, you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

Duty command officer Chief Inspector Heather Keating said: "This was a particularly nasty attack that has had devastating consequences for the victim. It is an isolated incident, following a dispute between people who are known to each other. Officers are actively seeking the named suspect Lucas Lamb. I would urge him to give himself up.

"Officers will be patrolling Hailsham on foot and in vehicles to reassure the community. If you have any information it is important that you contact us immediately."