AN AREA of Friarn Street in Bridgwater has been cordoned off by police following a serious assault which has left a man in a critical condition in hospital.

A police spokesman said this morning: "At around 11.30pm yesterday a man was assaulted in Friarn Lawn.

"He was attacked by someone who got out of a silver car and as a result of his injuries he is now in a critical condition in Frenchay Hospital.

"An investigation is underway to identify whoever is responsible.”

A neighbour who lives close by told the Mercury: “My husband saw about three blokes talking to Police. One guy was collapsed on the floor.

“Someone had already called an ambulance and a Police car was already there.”

The police spokesman added: "Enquiries have established that the victim had been with friends in the Green Dragon and Three Lions pubs that evening and had been assaulted after his short walk home.

"We are appealing for anyone who witnessed the assault or anything earlier in the evening which may have lead to the assault.

"We would also like to hear from anyone who saw a silver car in suspicious circumstances.

"Anyone who can help should contact police on 101.”