A MAN suffered a fractured skull in a New Year's Day nightclub attack, but did not realise how serious his injuries were.

The unnamed 23-year-old, from Sunderland, was only taken to hospital after collapsing at work on Tuesday.

He was recovering in the city's Royal Hospital last night where his condition was described as comfortable.

Police said there was no motive for the attack, which happened in Chambers nightclub, in High Street West, at 1.30am.

Detective Inspector John Watts, of Sunderland City CID, said the victim had been punched by up to eight male customers.

He said: "The man didn't realise how serious his injuries were until he collapsed at work."

Police are also investigating a handbag theft from Chambers, between 12.05am and 12.15am the same night. The bag contained a small amount of cash.

Detective Inspector Watts said there was no reason to link the theft with the attack.

Anyone with information should call Sunderland City CID on 0191-454 7555.