A man was violently beaten with a metal bat as he answered his door.

The 32-year-old was set on as he opened the door to his flat in Clarendon Road, Hove, shortly before midnight yesterday.

Two men entered and stole about £600.

The victim was taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital where he was kept in overnight suffering from head injuries.

One of his attackers is described as black, in his mid-20s, of medium build, and 5ft 3ins. He is bald and was wearing a black jacket with dark coloured jeans and trainers. He may have been wearing gloves.

The second man is described as wearing all dark clothing with his face covered with a dark scarf. He too may have been wearing gloves, and is slightly taller than the first man. There is no further description of him at present.

Detective Sergeant Helen Paine said; “Anyone who was in the Clarendon Road area late on Thursday evening and who saw these two men or who has any other information, is asked to call us via 0845 690 70 999 quoting Serial 1617 of 27 January.

“You can also call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”