The family of the victim of a brutal assault released this harrowing picture of him lying in a hospital bed today - in the hope of bringing his attackers to justice.

Ron Patterson remains in a serious condition in hospital after he was subjected to a severe and apparently motiveless beating by two men over a week ago.

The 35-year-old was walking along the busy Skipton Road, in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, when he was set upon by the pair outside the fire station.

He was left to fight for his life in hospital after suffering head injuries so serious that he could not give an account of the attack to detectives for several days afterwards.

Mr Patterson's family agreed for a photograph showing the extent of his injuries to be released by police in an effort to get anyone with information to come forward.

His father, John Patterson, of Harrogate, said: "We are deeply shocked and very upset that this could happen."

The assault took place at about 10.20pm on Saturday, July 27, just as Mr Patterson was walking home after finishing work. Police have yet to establish a motive for the attack and nothing was stolen.

A 17-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident. He has not been charged with any offence and is currently on bail, pending further inquiries.

Detective Constable Steve Menzies, of Harrogate police, said: "It is a very busy road at all times of the day and night so we would appeal to anyone who was passing, or anyone who has any information whatsoever, to come forward and talk to us."

Anyone with information about the attack on Mr Patterson is urged to contact Harrogate police on (01423) 539465.