A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder in the Royal Pavilion Gardens.

A rough sleeper, believed to be in his 50s, remains in a in a critical condition at Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton, where he is being treated for serious head injuries.

The incident occurred close to Brighton Museum and Art Gallery about 11.55pm on Tuesday, and was reported to police by a passer-by who discovered the victim about 7am on Wednesday.

The gardens were closed for a number of hours while forensics investigations were carried out, and the area has since been reopened to the public.

Now officers have arrested a 32-year-old man, who is also a rough sleeper, in nearby Church Street shortly before 9pm on Wednesday on suspicion of attempted murder.

Police say he remains in custody and at this stage, and they are not seeking anyone else in connection with the incident.

Chief Inspector Rachel Swinney said: “We believe this incident is isolated to the street community in Brighton. We would encourage any individual who is frightened or worried, or who has witnessed an incident you think we should be aware of, to contact us. We are here to help.”

Anyone with any information is asked to report it to Sussex Police online or call 101, quoting Operation Dickenson.