Murder bid arrest after rock attack

A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a 78-year-old tourist was attacked near York Minster.

The South African victim noticed a man had started following him at around 8.30pm on Friday and the stranger struck up a conversation with him.

Soon after, as they walked through the Minster Yard area, the man was repeatedly struck on the head with a rock or cobble.

The victim was taken to York District Hospital, where he was treated for a serious head injury and damage to his hand.

North Yorkshire Police said officers arrested a 43-year-old man from Tadcaster at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder. He was taken into police custody and was held for questioning.

Detective Inspector Ian Dyer said: "This appears to be an unprovoked attack on an elderly man who was enjoying a evening of sightseeing in York.

"We have spoken to a number of witnesses already, but we would still like to speak to anyone else who has not yet come forward."