A MAN is fighting for his life in a coma after being found with serious head injuries in a Poole alleyway.

Detectives say it is unclear exactly how the 53-year-old was injured, but his condition was so serious doctors placed him in a medically induced coma.

Police were called to the alleyway, linking Belben Road to Bremble Close, Alderney, around 3.30pm on Monday afternoon.

No one has been arrested in connection with the incident but the Daily Echo understands the man is local to the area.

Neighbours told the Echo a number of police, including plain clothed officers, attended the scene.

They also carried out door-to-door enquiries in the neighbourhood.

Detective Inspector Stewart Dipple, of Bournemouth and Poole CID, confirmed: “It is unclear at this time how the man came to be injured. He was treated at the scene by paramedics and is now in a medically induced coma at Southampton General Hospital.

“I am keen to speak to any witnesses as soon as possible to ascertain what happened.”

Alderney ward councillor Cllr Tony Trent also asked for witnesses to contact police.

“There is a well established safer neighbourhood team that is active in the area and they can be very discreet,” he said. “I know they do their best not to compromise anyone that gives information.”

Neighbour Barbara Pilcher, whose home is adjacent to the alleyway, said: “It’s quite shocking, I hope the man pulls through. We’ve lived here for 53 years and never heard about anything happening like this.”

Local resident Leanne Burgess also says the area was usually quiet.

“I’ve been here five years and walk along that alleyway all the time to get to my mums.

“We saw all the police cars yesterday, I hope the man is okay.”

Detective Inspector Dipple, who believes a number of people were in the area around the time of the incident, is urging witnesses to come forward.

He stressed: “All calls are treated in the strictest confidence.”

Contact Dorset Police on 101 quoting incident number 26:342.