A MAN was punched unconscious in an unprovoked attack as he walked home with his wife.

The couple were walking along Portway, in Woodhouse Park, Wythenshawe, when they were approached by a man asking for a cigarette.

They gave the man a cigarette, but when he asked for a light, the 43-year-old husband said he didn't have one.

He was then punched in the head and fell backwards, hitting his head on the pavement - knocking him unconscious.

An ambulance was called and he was taken to Hope Hospital in Salford, where his condition is described as 'stable'.

Det Con Kirsty Cicero said: "This was an unprovoked attack which has left a man badly injured in hospital.

"There may have been witnesses present and I would appeal to them to come forward."

His attacker is in his early 20s, white, with blond hair and a small build. The attack took place around 1am on Saturday and the attacker left the scene along Maisemore Road.

Call police on 0161 8564857 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.