Sussex Police have launched an urgent appeal after a 52-year-old Horsham man was found with significant head injuries under unexplained circumstances.

Emergency services were called on Friday, 16 May, after reports that the man had suffered serious lacerations to the back and side of his head. The man, who had spent time at the Tipsy Fox pub on Worthing Road, Southwater, earlier that day, was unable to recall how the injuries occurred.

Timeline of Events

The man was seen arriving at the Tipsy Fox pub around midday on Friday with his dog and remained there for about an hour. He was staying at a nearby property—within a 10-minute walk of the venue—but did not return until approximately three hours later.

Upon his return, it was evident that he had suffered traumatic injuries, prompting emergency medical attention. He was taken to hospital, where additional injuries were discovered. He remains in hospital receiving treatment, with no current recollection of the events that led to his condition.

Police Appeal for Witnesses

Sussex Police are investigating the incident and working to establish how the man sustained his injuries. Officers are particularly interested in tracing the man’s movements between 1pm and 4pm on 16 May.

A police spokesperson said:

“We are keen to speak with anyone who may have seen the man, or who has any information that could help us establish what happened. If you can help, please contact us online or call 101 quoting reference 1180 of 16/05.”

Description of the Man

Although a detailed description has not been released, the man was believed to be walking with a dog and may have appeared disoriented or injured during the time he was missing.

Local businesses or residents with CCTV or dashcam footage from the area around the Tipsy Fox pub or Southwater village centre during the relevant hours are also encouraged to come forward.