A SUSPECTED drug dealer has been arrested in connection with a serious assault in Runcorn.

The 60-year-old victim suffered facial injuries and required hospital treatment after being attacked at an address on Fernhurst shortly before 8pm on Friday, June 18.

Two men attended the premises and carried out the assault before leaving.

Cheshire Police have since confirmed that a 34-year-old man was arrested on the Wirral yesterday, Wednesday, over the attack.

And a ‘large’ quantity of cannabis was also seized as officers detained the suspect, who remains in custody today, Thursday.

A force spokesman said: “A 34-year-old man is currently in custody after he was arrested yesterday, Wednesday, at an address in Birkenhead – a large amount of cannabis was recovered from the address.

“He is being questioned on suspicion of aggravated burglary and possession with intent to supply cannabis.”

Officers had previously held a 37-year-old man on suspicion of a section 18 assault, but he has since been released on conditional bail.

Detective sergeant Rob McLoughlin previously said: “This was a serious assault which left a 60-year-old man with a number of injuries to his face – we believe two men arrived at the property and the assault has taken place inside, and then the men have left the scene.

“We have been in the local area following numerous enquiries to establish the full circumstances.

“To assist with our investigation, I am appealing to the public to get in touch if they think they saw these men in the run up to or after the assault.

“I also want to hear from anyone who may have CCTV footage or any other information that could help the investigation.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Cheshire Police on 101, quoting incident number IML1016660, or to call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.