A FRENZIED hammer attack in which a man suffered about a dozen blows to the head is being investigated by police.

Detectives admit to be puzzled and concerned by the apparent lack of motive for the savage late night attack, last Friday in County Durham.

The 39-year-old victim was walking home along a roadside footpath after a night out in Chester-le-Street when his attacker, in his mid-20s, pounced after hiding in bushes in Picktree Lane.

The gaunt attacker rained blows on his head and temples as the victim tried to defend himself.

He was eventually found around midnight wandering in a dazed condition by a passing motorist who alerted police.

He was taken to the University Hospital of North Durham but was allowed home after treatment to cuts and extensive swelling to the temples.

Detective Constable Tracey Etchells said the victim, who was a local man, was only yards from his home when he was confronted by the attacker.

She added that that attack was unprovoked and investigators who carried out house-to-house inquiries in the area were both puzzled and concerned at the absence of any obvious motive.

The thinly-built attacker is described as being 5ft 9in tall, with deep set dark eyes and dark shadows beneath them. He had sharp features and a pale complexion and was clean shaven.

He had dark spiky hair and wore dark clothing, a long-sleeved cotton jumper with a crew neck and black denim jeans.

Anyone who has any information about the attack is asked to ring Chester-le-Street police station on 0191-3884311 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.