A pub landlord was left lying in a pool of blood following a vicious assault by masked raiders.

Licensee Graham Overend, 40, was taken to hospital after the attack at the George Hotel in Cullingworth early yesterday.

Detectives say at least two men forced their way into the Station Road pub at about 3.20am.

The burglars are believed to have fled empty handed after attacking Mr Overend when he confronted them.

He was in the pub's upstairs living quarters at the time of the break-in and went to investigate when he heard noises.

Mr Overend was taken to Airedale General Hospital, Steeton, but later discharged following treatment.

Acting Detective Inspector Shaun Berry, of Keighley CID, said: "They threatened and attacked the landlord.

"It was a vicious and frightening attack which left him badly shaken.

"His injuries were not life-threatening but he was taken to hospital for treatment to cuts and bruises on his upper body and head.

"It is believed they may have had some sort of weapon but at this stage we're not sure exactly what it was.

"We're fairly sure burglary was the motive - probably for the cash machine they have there - but at this time we don't believe they got away with anything.''

Acting Det Insp Berry said it was possible the men may have been in the pub in the days or weeks while planning their raid.

He added: "We would like to hear from anyone who saw or heard anything on the night or anything suspicious during the days or weeks beforehand.''

Residents living near the pub said they were shocked by the attack.

One, who did not want to be named, said: "It's a nice, quiet pub. You just don't expect this sort of thing to happen somewhere like this.''

The men who attacked Mr Overend are described as white, stocky, in their 30s and wearing balaclava masks.

It is believed a third man may have been involved in the raid.

Anyone with any information is asked call Keighley CID on (01535) 617083.