A MAN is in hospital after being found unconscious in Preston town centre in the early hours of the morning

Neil Atkinson, 36, was found lying on the Flag Market at 5.30am, on October 8th, after leaving Tokyo Jo's nightclub on Church Street earlier in the morning. He was suffering from a fractured skull and was taken to Royal Preston Hospital where he was detained.

Police believe the man was a victim of a robbery after his wallet, with £40 and a bank card missing, was recovered from a bin yards away from where he was found.

Mr Atkinson underwent surgery on Monday afternoon and is now recovering and assisting police with their investigation. His condition is described as comfortable.

Detective inspector Joe Kellett, of Preston police, said: "When the victim was discovered he was showing signs of mild hypothermia, which tends to suggest he received the injuries some time before 5.30am.

"We are anxious to trace his movements between 1.10am and 5.30am on October 8."

Police are appealing for witnesses to contact them on 203203, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.