Detectives last night launched a murder hunt after a care worker who staggered into hospital with serious head wounds died from his injuries.

Michael Grey, 45, was in a coma for more than a week after he was attacked in Newcastle on November 11.

Mr Grey, who was single, was knocked unconscious but later recovered and managed to stagger into the hospital. He died on Tuesday.

Police studied CCTV footage from the West Road area of Newcastle, where the attack took place, and also at footage from inside the Plaza Tavern pub where the victim had been drinking.

Police have now confirmed they are looking for Mr Grey's killer. Det Supt Barbara Franklin, leading the investigation, says she believes there were a large number of people around when Mr Grey was attacked and has urged them to get in touch.

She said: "We believe there were at least two people who helped him off the ground following the assault and would appeal to those people to come forward to help with our investigation."

Mr Grey was 5ft 8in, wearing glasses, a black leather jacket, jeans, a navy blue shirt and black trainers.

Anyone with information should call Newcastle CID on 0191-2146555 ext 62508