A SOUTHAMPTON man suffered serious head injuries when he was beaten and slashed in a brutal attack outside his home.

The 21-year-old victim was outside his home in Ennerdale Road when a silver Vauxhall Corsa pulled up in front of the house.

When he looked into the car, two men in balaclavas who were passengers charged at him.

They beat him with a metal bar and slashed him inflicting head injuries.

His attackers returned to the car, which was driven away towards Maybush Road.

The injured man was admitted to Southampton General Hospital for treatment and was released the next day.

Detectives from the city’s Operation Fortress team, which crack down on drug-related violence, are now appealing for information.

They want to speak to anyone who witnessed the attack which happened at about 9.15pm on Boxing Day or saw the Vauxhall before or after the attack.

They are particularly interested in sightings of the car as it drove towards Maybush Road. Detectives also would like to hear from anyone who has information about the attack or the attackers.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Operation Fortress team in confidence at Hulse Road on 101 or the anonymous Crimestoppers charity line on 0800 555 111.

Anyone concerned about drug dealing or drug-related violence can call the police on 101 or email operation.fortress@hampshire.pnn.police.uk but if a crime is in progress call 999.