A 54-year-old father was today fighting for his life in hospital after being viciously attacked in a back street.

Terence Capper, of Baildon, suffered a fractured skull and internal injuries in the assault in Dale Street, Shipley.

He was found by a member of the public unconscious and lying in a pool of blood in a parking bay near Jimmy's Gym at about 6.30pm on Friday.

His wife was today keeping vigil at his bedside in the intensive care unit at Leeds General Infirmary.

Detective Chief Inspector Roger Gasson, of Keighley CID, who is leading the investigation, appealed for witnesses to come forward.

"It was a busy time of day and someone must have seen the victim and another man walking from the direction of Shipley clock tower and possibly down the ginnel next to Lloyds bar and into Dale Street," he said.

"The victim is in a serious condition in hospital and we are fearful for his condition."

Det Chief Insp Gasson said Mr Capper's wife was receiving support from specialist officers.

"Obviously she's extremely upset and worried about him and she's staying with him around the clock in the hope that he pulls through, as we are all hoping," he said.

"There's also a police liaison officer with her to look after her welfare. He's still in a very bad way and it's a very worrying time for Mr Capper's family. Our thoughts are with them."

A spokesman at LGI today described his condition as critical but stable.

A passer-by, who telephoned 999 for an ambulance, said Mr Capper appeared to be unconscious when he was found in the street.

"He was lying face down and there was blood everywhere," said the man, who did not want to be named.

"We stayed with him until the police and ambulance arrived."

Mr Capper was wearing a green polo shirt, black jumper, blue jeans and black training shoes.

Dale Street was cordoned off on Saturday as police forensic experts carried out a fingertip search of the scene.

Anyone with information about the attack can contact Keighley CID on (01535) 617083 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

A 52-year-old Shipley man was arrested on Saturday evening in connection with the incident.

He was released on police bail last night pending further inquiries