Police think a pair of gunmen who blasted a Sussex businessman in the head intended to leave them a message when they dumped their motorbike.

Officers believe the "V1 LON" number plate on the motorbike used in the shooting was an attempt by the villains to thumb their noses at police.

One officer said: "Vehicles used in crimes often are set on fire to destroy evidence but this was left in tact so we would find it."

Detective Chief Inspector Reg Hooke, heading Operation Avalanche, said: "The false number plate is a good indication of the arrogance and ruthlessness of the people we are looking for."

The green machine was found in a wooded area on the Sedlescombe Road, near Sedlescombe, Battle, about half a mile from the scene of the shooting.

Gunmen dumped the bike and switched to another vehicle. Police want anyone who saw the bike at any time, or the two riders changing vehicles, to come forward.

The victim, a wealthy 45-year-old from the Hastings area, was blasted twice in the head through the car window at point-blank range.

He was in intensive care today and fighting for his life. Armed police were guarding him and his family.

Police believe it was a professional "hit". The victim had pulled up in his new, silver top-of-the-range Mercedes at a crossroads at Cripp's Corner, near Battle, just after 6.30am yesterday when the bike pulled up alongside. The victim managed to open his car door just as the gun was raised and shots were fired but he could not escape.

He collapsed unconscious in the driver's seat and later underwent emergency surgery. Police were not naming the hospital in case the gunmen make a second attempt to kill him.

The offenders, who sped from the scene towards Hastings, wore distinctive yellow fluorescent tops and royal blue helmets.

Police are hoping they were noticed and they appealed to witnesses to come forward.

Mr Hooke said: "We have had a good response from the public so far but we believe there are important witnesses still out there who could help us."

Anyone with information should call Mr Hooke or the incident room on 0845 6070 999.