A MAN is still seriously ill in hospital after a fracas at a birthday party.

The 37-year-old from Slaithwaite suffered serious head injuries, including a fractured skull, and was transferred to a specialist unit at Leeds General Infirmary.

His condition is said to be stable.

He was hurt when a group of men in their 20s attacked him at Slaithwaite Saracens Rugby League Club on Commercial Street in the first few minutes of Sunday morning.

A friend was also hurt, suffering cuts and bruises, when he went to try to save him.

A 21st birthday party was being held at the club at the time and police have urged any partygoers who saw what happened to contact them.

Det Con Neil Willan, of Kirklees CID based in Huddersfield, said: “The two men who were hurt are both regulars at the club.

“Although a private party was going on at the time there were not a large number of people there, only about 30.’’

Det Con Willan added: “We need to speak to anyone who was in the club at the time and saw what happened.’’

The attackers had fled by the time police and paramedics arrived.

The badly injured man was taken to Huddersfield Royal Infirmary and then transferred to Leeds.

Witnesses should phone Det Con Willan on 01484 436706 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.