The 25-year-old man was walking home when at about 4am at the intersection of Donnelly and Markham Streets he was attacked from behind by two or three men. 

Attackers knocked the man to the ground and continued hitting him before he managed to get up and run away.

He managed to get to Armidale Police Station where he reported the incident and noted his jaw was sore.

Upon further inspection at Armidale hospital it was found his jaw was broken and a gash on his head required five stiches.

The man was later transferred to John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle for emergency surgery; he has since been confirmed to be in a stable condition.

Police were otherwise happy with the behaviour of New Year’s Eve revellers in Armidale with only a few incidents.

Armidale Police Inspector Roger Best said despite a few issues the celebrators did not cause too much trouble.

“In general police were very happy with the behaviour of the crowds, though there were a number of antisocial behaviour incidents fuelled by alcohol,” he said.

Police attended four domestic assaults involving alcohol and issued three move on orders throughout December 31, 2013. 

A minor was also caught drinking alcohol.