The family of a young man beaten black and blue in a seaside town released a graphic picture of his injuries today in the hope of catching his attackers.

The 23-year-old victim, named only as Kyle, was set upon by a group of men during a night out in Worthing, West Sussex, in the early hours of Sunday.

A detective investigating the attack said it was one of the most serious assaults he had dealt with and appealed for public help in catching those responsible.

A Sussex Police spokesman said Kyle was in a serious but stable condition in Worthing Hospital with extensive head injuries as officers followed a number of lines of inquiry.

His mother, who declined to be named, said today: "We want anyone with information to come forward. Kyle has been kicked and punched on the head and attacked with fencing.

"This could happen to anyone's son. You don't expect it to happen on a night out."

Police said the attack on Kyle, from Worthing, happened after an earlier disagreement with two groups of people in Worthing town centre.

Detective Sergeant Alex Lowe, of Sussex Police, said: "This is one of the most serious assaults I have dealt with and I am shocked by the level of violence used."

Anyone with information is asked to call Worthing CID on 0845 6070 999, quoting Operation Epwell, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.