Man remains in 'critical' condition after cliff fall

Three men have been charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent

A man who fell from a clifftop remains in hospital in a critical condition.

He fell 20ft (6m) from the cliffs at Whitburn, in South Tyneside, following an alleged fight between four males.

The man remains in hospital where he was admitted with "serious, life-threatening injuries".

Northumbria Police have charged three men, aged between 20 and 24 years old, with causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

The suspects appeared before South Tyneside Magistrates Court on 18 December.

They were released on conditional bail and are set to appear at Newcastle Crown Court on 15 January next year.

The alleged fight took place at about 8:30 GMT on 15 December.

Police officers believe there were a number of people in the area at the time of the incident and have launched an appeal for information.

Police appeal

Det Con David Haddrell said: “This was a serious incident which has left a man in a critical condition.

“An investigation has been ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the report – and officers have already carried out a number of enquiries.

“However, we know the area was busy at the time of the alleged altercation, with a number of members of the public on the clifftop path, particularly dog walkers.

“Therefore, I would urge anyone who is yet to speak with officers to get in touch as soon as possible.

“Your information – no matter how insignificant it may seem – could really help us to piece together what happened.”