THE victim of a samurai sword attack during a York street brawl was today in a comfortable condition in hospital.

The man, named locally as Steve Johnson, 37, of Kingsway West, Acomb, was taken to York Hospital following a disturbance involving ten men outside his home at 10.30pm on Saturday.

Police say he suffered multiple injuries, including some to his head and arm.

As reported in later editions of yesterday's Evening Press, the incident left neighbours shocked and shaken as they watched a "sea of people" fighting in the street.

Mr Johnson was spotted bleeding and being held by two men. It is thought he needed stitches to his face, arm and leg.

A nearby householder, who did not want to be named, said: "He's in a bad way and is going to need plastic surgery. They stabbed him through his foot and apparently the sword broke over his arm."

Two men in their 40s from outside the York area were arrested and released on bail pending further inquiries.

Anyone who witnessed the incident should phone York Police on 01904 631321 or Crime Stoppers on 0800 555111.

Updated: 10:26 Tuesday, July 06, 2004