DETECTIVES in Northallerton are appealing for two witnesses to come forward following a violent street robbery which left a man seriously injured.

The incident took place between midnight and 1am last night on Valley Road, Northallerton, near the junction with Central Drive.

The victim, a 43-year-old man from Northallerton, had walked up Lascelles Lane, away from East Road before turning onto Valley Road. As he approached the junction for Central Drive he was approached from behind by at least two people who knocked him to ground before violently assaulting him and stealing his money.

As a result of the incident he suffered a fractured skull, a broken wrist and a chest injury. The victim was admitted to the Friarage Hospital, Northallerton, where he currently remains in a stable condition.

After the robbery it is believed the suspects ran off towards Greenhowsyke Lane.

Just prior to the robbery taking place, the victim passed a couple walking a dog on Lascelles Lane. It is these people officers need to trace as witnesses.

Detective Constable Michelle Waite, of Northallerton CID, said: “This was a vicious and apparently unprovoked assault which left the victim needing hospital treatment.

“I am urging the couple walking the dog on Lascelles Lane area around the time of the robbery, to come forward straight away as I believe they may have vital information which could help my enquiries.”

DC Waite added: “I also keen to speak to anyone who can identify those responsible for this nasty robbery and ask them to contact me as soon as possible.”

Anyone who can assist with this investigation should contact Northallerton CID on 101, select option two and ask for Michelle Waite.

Alternatively, information can be emailed to michelle.waite@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk. For those who would prefer to remain anonymous, Crimestoppers.

Please quote reference number 12140195470 when providing information about this robbery.