THE mother of a Middlesbrough man who has spent the past two weeks in hospital with severe head injuries is appealing for help to track down his attackers.

Sean Grimes, who was found in a pool of blood in Union Street, Middlesbrough, was taken to James Cook University Hospital, where he was placed under sedation.

Police were initially unable to identify the victim, who suffered a deep concussion and a broken nose.

His mother Christine, 52, said doctors did not yet know if her 36-year-old son had suffered any lasting damage.

She said: "When I found out, I just started screaming."

Ms Grimes, along with Sean's brother, Neil, 35, and Sean's partner, Paul Spackman, 40, are visiting him regularly, as are other friends and family.

Police have yet to establish a motive for the assault, because they have been unable to interview the victim due to the extent of his injuries.

Robbery and the possibility of a homophobic attack have not been ruled out.

Mr Grimes' mobile phone is missing but he still had a substantial amount of cash on him when he was discovered at 3.30am on Sunday, September 25, not far from the Western Social Club.

Detective Sergeant Keith Dee said: "He has suffered a brain injury of some kind, but nothing is showing up on scans. Because of the time it happened, there are very few witnesses."

Officers have failed to uncover any clues despite carrying out door-to-door inquiries and studying security footage.

Mr Grimes, who lives with his mother in Brambles Farm, was wearing a pale blue shirt with a faint brown check pattern, a cross pendant round his neck, and brown shoes.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Keith Dee, of Middlesbrough CID, on (01642) 303133 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.