CCTV image shows two sought after man attacked with shovel in Stourbridge

Three men struck the 30-year-old victim several times with the weapon before kicking him as he lay on the ground, police said.

They said the victim was 'extremely fortunate' not to suffer life-threatening injuries in the 'prolonged attack' which happened in Hagley Road during the early hours of Sunday.

The assault came just a week after a man was stabbed and two others two were hurt in a brawl on the same road near to The Arena nightclub.

Police have released CCTV images of two men they want to speak to in connection with the latest attack.

Officers were to Hagley Road, just off the main ring road, at around 4.45am. The victim was taken to hospital with head injuries and where he remains in a stable condition.

A 43-year-old man was arrested on Sunday and has been bailed pending further investigation.

Dc Gareth Homer said: "This was a really nasty attack and the victim was extremely fortunate not to suffer life-threatening injuries.

"The trio ganged up on their victim for a prolonged attack and we are urgently appealing for anyone with information about what happened to come forward.

"We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who recognises the two men in the CCTV image."

CI Mark Bramwell from Dudley Police added: "Although this a nasty incident I would like to reassure people that the town is a safe place to come and enjoy at night. Dudley and the surrounding area has dedicated officers on duty to cover the night-time economy and there is also a successful Pubwatch scheme in place with local licensed premises."

Police have said they have no reason to link the two incidents at this stage.

Five men, aged from 21 to 31, were arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following the stabbing. They have been given police bail until the end of August.

Witnesses are asked to contact police on 101 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.