THE family of the 50-year-old man attacked in Acomb have spoken of their shock and distress.

Keith Wright suffered serious head injuries and went into a coma following the assault at the corner of Fairfax Court and Acomb Road on Monday evening.

Tonight he remains in Leeds General Infirmary in a “critical but stable” condition.

Two teenagers appeared before court today and have been remanded in custody charged with carrying out the attack.

In a statement released through North Yorkshire Police today, Mr Wright’s family said: “We are deeply shocked and upset by what has happened to Keith and we hope those responsible will be brought to justice.

“We are very grateful to York Hospital and Leeds General Infirmary for caring for Keith. We also thank North Yorkshire Police for their efforts to investigate the incident and supporting our family under these terrible circumstances.”

Mr Wright was originally taken to York Hospital after a member of the public alerted the emergency services, but was transferred to Leeds for specialist treatment. He was attacked at about 7.40pm on Monday.

Liam Wyard, 19, formerly of Acomb Road in Acomb, and now of no fixed address, and a 16-year-old from west York who cannot be named for legal reasons, were arrested on Tuesday and later charged with causing Mr Wright grievous bodily harm with intent.

They appeared in custody before York magistrates today. After hearing from Steve Ovenden that the charge could only be tried by a judge and jury, the magistrates sent both defendants to York Crown Court where they will appeal next Monday for a preliminary hearing.

Neither Chris McGrogan for Wyard, nor Kevin Blount for the youth, made bail applications and their clients were remanded in custody.