A MAN suffered serious head injuries when he confronted illegal metal detectorists.

Humberside Police said the attack happened in Yapham Road, Pocklington, just after midnight on Saturday, April 6.

A spokesman said the victim challenged men who "were on his land illegally metal detecting", and sustained a serious head injury in the assault, before the suspects fled the scene in a silver vehicle, believed to be an Audi.

The spokesman said the men were 'nighthawking' - unlawfully metal detecting on farmland or archaeological sites to steal coins or artefacts of historical and financial value.

Anyone who saw the incident or has information which could help detectives should contact Humberside Police on 101 quoting reference 16/44596/19.