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A 24-year-old man has been hospitalised after an attack in West Belfast on Friday evening.

It is understood a hammer and chain were used in the attack in Springhill Avenue.

The ambulance service arrived on the scene after 7pm to reports of a man unconscious.

A spokesman said that he was rushed to the Royal Victoria Hospital.

Sinn Fein MP Paul Maskey said: "There was a very short, intense fight between a number of people. Afterwards a young lad was rushed to hospital.

"There have been a lot of rumours about his condition but police have come back and said that he is quite badly injured.

"We're concerned about his condition. It is bad, but we are not sure how bad it is at this stage.

"We hope that those responsible for this assault are found as soon as possible."

Detective Sergeant Ken Leckey said: "Police were called to Springhill Avenue shortly after 7pm following reports a man had been assaulted by two others close to nearby shops.

"The victim was taken to hospital for treatment to injuries that are not thought to be life threatening at this time.

"Our enquiries into the circumstances of the assault are ongoing and anyone with information that may assist the police investigation is asked to contact detectives in Belfast by calling 101, quoting reference number 1109 29/12/17."