A window cleaner was fighting for life today after being viciously attacked as he went about his work in Brighton.

Philip Gray's family has gathered at his bedside in intensive care.

Mr Gray, 54, was in a critical condition at the Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton, after being battered around the head.

He was attacked in Brighton city centre yesterday at about 7am.

Detectives hunting his attacker believe he was set upon in a service road leading to Brighton Square, where he works as a cleaner.

After being attacked he managed to stumble into Market Street where he was discovered by a passer-by in a pool of blood near the Druid's Head pub.

Police called to the scene cordoned off the area in Brighton Square and many of the businesses and shops were unable to open until about 11am when forensic experts had finished carrying out their investigations.

Detectives have refused to confirm or deny whether a hammer was used in the attack on Mr Gray, who is married with children and lives in Brighton.

Detective Inspector Fiona Grant, leading the hunt, said: "We are currently trying to piece together the circumstances that led to this very violent attack and we would urge anyone with information, no matter how insignificant they may think it may be, to come forward."

The area is monitored by CCTV cameras but it is not known if detectives have drawn any leads from the footage.

Vanessa Kellett, manager of the Cactus Canteen restaurant in the square, said staff were concerned about safety in the area after hearing the news.

She said: "He's quite well-known in the area and we always see him around. He's an older guy with grey hair who gets on with his job. It's not as if he's someone who has had a drink and got into a fight.

"It's shocking that it can happen so close and to someone of that age."

Sarah Avis, who works in Pets Corner in the square said: "I don't know him that well but always say hello when I see him. He always seemed really nice. We're shocked. A few customers have been asking about him."

Anyone with any information can phone police on 0845 6070999.