A MAN is in a critical condition after being attacked by a shirtless man in a Poole pub.

Police are investigating after the attack, at the Foundry Arms pub, at around 6pm on Tuesday (January 10).

The incident unfolded after the victim, a man aged in his 50s, was entering the Lagland Street pub and reportedly became involved in a verbal altercation with a group of people who were leaving.

The victim continued into the venue before a male member of the group then allegedly came back inside and assaulted him, causing the victim to fall to the ground, police said.

It was reported the alleged offender removed his T-shirt during the incident and left the pub immediately afterwards.

The victim was taken to hospital for treatment to a serious head injury and remains in a critical condition.

Following enquiries by detectives from Bournemouth CID, a 19-year-old Poole man was arrested on suspicion of inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent.

He has been released on police bail as investigative work continues.

Detective Inspector Shaun Inkpen, of Bournemouth CID, said: “We are continuing to make enquiries into this incident, and I would urge anyone who witnessed either the reported confrontation at the entrance to the pub or the alleged assault that occurred inside to please contact us.

“I am also keen to speak to anyone who may have seen the alleged offender leaving the pub around 6pm on Tuesday, January 10.”

Anyone with information should contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/contact, or by calling 101, quoting incident number 55230005651, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.