HAMMER-wielding thugs left a man with a broken leg and bruising all over his body after an unprovoked attack in the early hours of this morning (Friday, January 31).

A gang of two or three assailants assaulted their 22-year-old victim with a metal pole and a hammer, leaving him with an open wound where his leg was broken.

The attack took place at around 1.25am today at the junction of Howe Hill Close and Sowerby Road, in York, and the victim is now being treated in York Hospital.

Police are now appealing for anyone with information to come forward as they attempt to track down those responsible.

Detective Constable John Phillips said: “This was an unprovoked and violent assault which has left the victim with serious injuries.

“It’s vital that we find out who is responsible and I am appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information which could help the investigation to call the police without delay."

Contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option two and ask for York CID or email Yorkcid@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk To pass information anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.