A PICKERING man was in a critical condition in hospital today after he was assaulted by thieves who were breaking into his lorry.
The 41-year-old man is believed to have challenged a thief or thieves on Wednesday night as they tried to break into his heavy goods vehicle, which was parked in Valley Farm Road, Stourton, Leeds.
The man suffered serious head injuries in the assault. He was discovered lying in the road close to his vehicle just before 11pm and taken to Leeds General Infirmary.
A West Yorkshire Police spokeswoman said they were treating the incident as a serious assault and urged anyone with information to contact officers on 0113 241 4717.
Detective Superintendent Jim Bancroft, who is heading the investigation, said: "The victim acted with courage in challenging the thief or thieves and has been very seriously assaulted as a result."
Yesterday detectives returned to Valley Farm Road, an access road to a rail container depot, and forensic examinations were carried out in the area.
Updated: 10:19 Friday, March 21, 2003
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