A man suffered serious head injuries after he was attacked in the street.

The victim, who has not been named, was punched and kicked during the assault.

It happened after he rang a doorbell at a house in Sackville Road, Hove, just after midnight today.

Neighbours alerted police and the victim was taken unconscious to the Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton, for treatment.

Police said his injuries were serious but were not believed to be life-threatening.

Detective Inspector Mick Jones said: "We were unable to speak to him immediately after the incident and he had only just come round by 9am.

"We hope to talk to him to try to discover what happened.

"The incident took place at around midnight when he appears to have been assaulted by four males.

"Three were arrested nearby but we are still trying to find the fourth man.

"This was a nasty assault and we need to hear from any witnesses as soon as possible."

Anyone with information should phone Mr Jones at Hove police station on 0845 6070999.