A MAN was hit repeatedly on the head by an "unknown object" as he walked in a secluded area near the beach, police said.

A passer-by was also hit in the face after trying to intervene in the attack in Dukes Mound, Brighton, at around 3.30am on Saturday.

The attacker, described as a white man in his late 20s, ran off towards Brighton Marina, police added.

The first victim was taken to Royal Sussex County Hospital with head and facial injuries, and the second victim sustained minor facial injuries, police said.

The attacker was also described as about 5'8", with blonde, spikey hair, wearing a white T-shirt under a blue jumper, light blue jeans and white trainers.

Detectives said the attack was unprovoked.

Contact 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101, quoting serial 212 of 23/01.

Or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.