A CAR wash worker who was seriously injured in an axe attack was targeted after an earlier dispute, police believe.

Officers investigating the nasty broad-daylight attack at Longroyd Lane on Monday have linked the dispute to an altercation.

It took place nearly two hours before the incident, between the car wash worker and suspects in a small black hatchback.

It is understood the vehicle cut through the car wash at the junction with Manchester Road and Longroyd Lane while the victim was working.

An altercation took place before the men in the car made off.

Then at around 11.10am, the 27-year-old worker was ‘outnumbered’ and suffered serious head injuries in an attack.

He remains in a serious condition with head injuries at Huddersfield Royal Infirmary.

His condition is described as “stable and improving”.

Det Sgt Neil King, of Huddersfield CID, said: “This was a brutal and sustained attack on a man who was outnumbered.

“I would ask any witnesses to contact Huddersfield CID on 101.”