A 21-year-old student remains in hospital following an attack in Belfast's University area at the weekend.

Police have described it as a "serious and vicious assault".

The assault happened at the corner of Eblana Street and University street at about 0230 BST on Sunday.

The police said the victim, who is a student from Pomeroy, County Antrim, was attacked after a row broke out with a group of men and women.

Motive

He was taken to the Belfast City Hospital a short time later and treated for head injuries.

Detectives investigating the incident said they were keen to hear from a woman who may have helped the victim shortly after the assault.

She was wearing a white short sleeved top covered in bloodstains.

The police said it was still not clear what the motive was, but they have ruled out any sectarian or paramilitary involvement.