22 December 2012 Last updated at 07:15 ET

South Shields man stabbed to death in the street

The attack happened at the junction of Stanhope Road and Boldon Lane in South Shields

A man suffered fatal stab wounds when he was attacked in front of his girlfriend on his way home from a night out, police said.

Northumbria Police said David Charlton was attacked by two youths at 22:35 GMT on Friday at the junction of Stanhope Road and Boldon Lane in South Shields.

The 25-year-old was taken to hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Officers said the weapon, thought to be a knife, and some clothing, may have been discarded nearby.

Police believe the victim left the Last Orders pub with his girlfriend before getting into an argument with two youths who then assaulted him.

Ch Insp Michael Barton, said: "We understand this incident has caused concern to the community and we've got extra officers on patrol to reassure people that everything is being done to trace the people involved.

"This is a tragic incident and anyone who has information should get in touch with us as soon as possible."

A post-mortem examination will take place later.