Detectives have repeated warnings that “one punch can kill” after a late-night row in a takeaway almost ended in tragedy.

Police were called to Atlantis Pizza in Hollowgate, Holmfirth, after a row inside spilled out into the street.

It is believed customers got into an argument in the shop and two men went outside. One of them, a 28-year-old man, was punched in the face and fell, striking his head.

The victim suffered a serious head injury, causing a bleed on the brain. The man was detained in hospital but is now receovering at home.

The attack happened at 1.30am on Saturday, December 12 but details have only just been released.

Police are asking people out in Holmfirth town centre in the run-up to Christmas to thank back and contact them if they remember what happened.

Det Insp George Bardell, of Kirklees CID, said officers were examining CCTV footage from the town centre and appealed for anyone with information to come forward.

Det Inspector George Bardell

“Fortunately, the victim is now recovering at home but this assault could have had fatal consequences,” he said.

“People have to be responsible for their actions and the consequences of them. One punch can kill.”

Mr Bardell said it was not clear exactly what the argument had been about.

The attacker is described as a white man in his early 20s, tallish and of athletic build with short brown or fair hair. He wore a light coloured top.

Anyone with information can contact Kirklees CID via 101 quoting reference 13150511329 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

In unrelated investigations, police would like to speak to the people pictured in the image gallery below. The people pictured in the images may be witnesses as well as suspects. If you recognise anyone, contact police on 101 quoting the reference number on the image caption.