THE family of the victim of a brutal assault yesterday released a harrowing picture of him lying in a hospital bed, in the hope of bringing his attackers to justice.

Ron Patterson remains in a serious condition in hospital after he was subjected to a severe and apparently motiveless beating by two men more than a week ago.

The 35-year-old was walking along Skipton Road, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, when he was set upon by the pair outside the fire station.

He was left to fight for his life in hospital after suffering head injuries so serious that he could not give an account of the attack to detectives for days afterwards.

His family agreed to a photograph showing the extent of his injuries being released by police in a bid to get anyone with information to come forward.

Mr Patterson's father, John, of Harrogate, said: "We are deeply shocked and very upset that this could happen."

The assault took place at about 10.20pm on Saturday, July 27, as Mr Patterson was walking home after finishing work.

A 17-year-old man was arrested and is on bail, pending further inquiries.

Detective Constable Steve Menzies, of Harrogate police, said: "It is a very busy road at all times of the day and night, so we would appeal to anyone who was passing, or anyone who has any information whatsoever, to come forward and talk to us."

Anyone with information is urged to contact Harrogate police on (01423) 539465.