A man is seriously ill with head injuries after a suspected assault in Bristol.

The man, believed to be in his 40s, was found unconscious on a pavement in Ruthven Road, Knowle West, at the junction with Wallingford Road.

Police were called to the scene just before midnight last night by ambulance crews, who took the man to Frenchay Hospital. He later underwent surgery.

But the man had no personal belongings on him and detectives were today trying to establish his identity.

Detective Inspector Gary Stephens said: "We are currently treating it as a serious assault and would appeal for anyone with information to come forward.

"We know various youths had been in the street and there had been some kind of commotion but we don't know what caused it or what it was about."

Anyone with information should contact police on 0845 456 7000 or phone the Crimestoppers number 0800 555111.