The 65-year-old victim suffered fractures to his head and face when he was kicked and punched by up to four men. His wife was treated for cuts to her face.

The attack occurred as the couple and their son and another woman were walking along the Newtownards Road in the town.

A police spokeswoman said the attackers ran off in the direction of the town centre.

“Sometime before 1am a man, his wife and their son accompanied by another woman were walking along the Newtownards Road in the town in the vicinity of a petrol station,” the police spokeswoman said.

“At this time a group of up to four males attacked them.

“After the attack all of the assailants ran off towards Comber town centre.”

Ards councillor Simon Hamilton described the incident as a “vicious” assault.

“This vicious attack on a man and his wife who were on their way home from a night out is a disgrace that will disgust the people of Comber,” Mr Hamilton said.

“The people who perpetrated this crime have brought Comber into the news headlines for the wrong reasons and their horrific actions will be condemned by everyone.

Police are appealing for anyone with information to contact them on 0845 600 8000.

Alternatively they can pass information anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555111.