A man was still fighting for his life in hospital today as police stepped up their inquiry into a brutal attack.

The critically ill victim - 47-year-old dad Ian Warburton - received head injuries after being attacked in a street shortly after 10pm on Tuesday.

It is understood Mr Warburton, who originates from Bradford but who now lives in Keighley, was set upon by a number of men after collecting items for a friend from a property in Kingswood Street, Great Horton.

Detective Superintendent Allan Doherty, who is leading the investigation, said two men had entered a premises where they became involved in a dispute with some Asian males. Once outside the house, one of the men - thought to be Mr Warburton - was confronted by a further two Asian men before being attacked.

The other man who went to the property with Mr Warburton had left before he came under attack.

It is understood the incident took place close to 41 Kingswood Street and detectives appealed for witnesses.

Det Supt Doherty said: "It appears that the victim was inside or in close proximity to a blue Vauxhall Carlton at that time."

He added that two Asian men, one with long curly hair, and a white woman were thought to have been close by, but not involved in the attack.

"These people have not yet spoken to us and I would appeal for them to come forward now," he said.

Det Supt Doherty said it appeared the victim had gone to remove some property 'quite lawfully'.

Miriam Warburton, 38, who lives in Kingswood Street, said she found her former husband badly injured after their son Matthew, 17, ran into the house to raise the alarm.

She added: "I went out to see him. His eyes were like footballs and there was bleeding at the back of his head."

Mrs Warburton, who has four children with Ian, said she thought he had been moving property for a friend.

Yesterday police continued their search of the scene. It is understood they have interviewed a number of residents but appealed for anyone else with information to contact Bradford South CID on (01274) 376459.

The victim remained in a critical but stable condition at Leeds General Infirmary.

Two men, both aged 22, have been arrested in connection with the incident and were today being questioned by detectives.