TWO security guards were injured, one seriously, when they were attacked by robbers at the weekend.

A police spokesman said the guards were on duty at the premises of International Cuisine, on the Hownsgill Industrial Estate, in Consett, County Durham, when the attack happened, at about midnight on Saturday.

The spokesman said: "One of the security guards was patrolling the perimeter of the factory, on the south side of Consett, when two men attacked him.

"They disabled him and gained entry to the factory complex. The second security man was in the canteen of the complex when the two men attacked him.

"He was subjected to a sustained attack with what is believed to be metal bar."

The raiders then gained entry to a secure area where they stole an amount of money.

They escaped by climbing the perimeter fence and ran off toward a nearby cycle track.

Both guards were taken to the University Hospital of North Durham where they were treated. The first guard was only slightly hurt, but the second suffered severe head injuries. They were both later discharged.

The first suspect is described as in his late 20s to mid 30s, 5ft 10in, of stocky build with brown to fair hair. He was wearing a dark blue long-sleeved zipped jacket, and dark trousers, boots and a woollen hat.

The second man was in his teens or early 20s, 5ft 5in of medium build. He was wearing a woollen hat, dark trousers and blue jacket.

Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Sergeant Vic Deanes, on (01207) 504204.