A 56-year-old man from Malton was visiting family in Harrogate when he was approached by two youths, one of whom was carrying a bottle.

The youth carrying the bottle demanded the man’s wallet. When he refused, the youth hit him in the head with the bottle, before both youths ran away from the scene.

The victim was taken to Leeds General Infirmary where he was treated for a serious head injury. He is still there, described as being in a “stable” condition.

“This was a vicious, unprovoked attack,” a police spokesman said. “It’s vital we catch these callous offenders as soon as possible.”

Detective Sergeant Nichola Holden, added: “We have had a number of witnesses who have been in touch with information already.

“However, it is vital that the others who were in the area and saw the incident unfold, or noticed the two men running away, come forward to help identify those responsible and trace further potential witnesses.”

There is no description of either of the youths, other than they are both white and in their late teens or early twenties.

The attack happened as the man was walking past the bus stop outside the post office in King Edward’s Drive just before 1.25am on Saturday, January 11.

Anyone with information should phone North Yorkshire Police control room on 0845 6060247, quoting “serious Assault – King Edward’s Drive”.

Alternatively, people can phone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.