UPDATE: Man seriously assaulted in Littlehampton in critical condition

A 38-year-old man was left with fractures to his ribs and spine and a suspected collapsed lung after he was attacked on Saturday morning at 12.30am in New Road at the junction with Bayford Road.

Police believe the assault was unprovoked but have not ruled out robbery as a motive.

They have not confirmed whether a weapon was used in the attack.

The victim remains in the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton, where his condition is described as “critical but stable”.

Detectives from Worthing CID have been contacting witnesses and reviewing CCTV.

Forensic officers have also examined the scene and local officers are speaking with residents to identify other potential witnesses and investigative leads.

The suspect is described as white with olive skin, 6ft, of thin build, in his mid-20s with thick black short styled hair, wearing a black top and jeans.

Detective Sergeant Colin O’Hare said: “We are asking for anybody with information about this assault or who may have witnessed it to contact us via 101 or email [email protected] quoting Serial 55 of 19/10. You can also call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”