A WOMAN suffered serious head injuries in a street attack in York.

The 42-year-old was assaulted between 4am and 4.30am today and found in Lady Road, Clifton.

Detectives from North Yorkshire Police have spoken to the woman in York Hospital, where her condition is still described as serious but stable, and police said they believe she was assaulted by a man known to her.

Another resident said she had seen at least ten officers, including forensic officers, at the scene when she went to work at about 6.30am.

She said: “It’s terrible, it’s frightening. I have lived here 34 years, brought two children up here. It’s a lovely street, this is very rare. People who live down here have children who play here. In the past it’s been a quiet street, we never have any bother.”

One woman who did not wish to be named and lives in Cromer Street, next to the crime scene, said: “I looked out the window at about 7.30am and I saw the police and thought ‘oh my goodness, what’s been happening’?

“I have never known anything as serious as this since I have been here, and that’s 14 or 15 years.

It’s only occasional squabbles with youngsters when they’ve had too much to drink, but that’s not been so bad recently.”

Detective Inspector Andrea Kell, of York CID, said: “Although it is believed that the victim knew her attacker, the investigation is still at an early stage so I am urging anyone with information that can help our enquiries to get in touch.

“If you were in the Lady Road area between 4am and 4.30am and either witnessed the assault take place or saw anyone acting suspiciously, I urge you to contact the police or Crimestoppers as soon as possible.”

Police have cordoned off Lady Road while investigations continue, and urged anyone with information to contact them on 101, email YorkCID@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk or phone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.