POLICE have issued an e-fit of a man who launched a frenzied hammer attack on a man in County Durham.

The attacker hid in bushes in Picktree Lane, Chester-le-Street, and pounced on his 39-year-old victim, hitting him on the head and temples with a hammer.

The victim had been walking home on Friday after a night out. He was found by a driver at about midnight.

Investigators are baffled by the assault, which was apparently unprovoked and motiveless.

The man they are looking for is described as thin and about 5ft 9in tall. He wore dark clothing, a long-sleeved cotton jumper with a crew neck and black demin jeans.

Anyone who has information about the attack is asked to ring Chester-le-Street CID on 0191-388 4311.