FRIENDS of a Droitwich man left for dead in the town centre on Sunday night say they cannot understand why anyone would harm such a well-liked family man.

Stephen Halsall, aged 37, was found in a car park off St Andrew's Street on Monday morning, unconscious and suffering from hypothermia. He had been savagely beaten around the face.

He regained consciousness in Worcestershire Royal Hospital on Tuesday, but was unable to remember what had happened, said Carlene Webb, landlady of the Star and Garter.

Mrs Webb said she had visited Mr Halsall in hospital and been shocked at the state of his face.

"I don't know how anyone could beat someone up that badly. It's a real shame," she said.

"He was in fairly good spirits and was trying to smile, but it was difficult because he is very swollen and sore and was still drowsy."

Regulars at the High Street pub have started a collection for Mr Halsall, who is a member of their football team and had scored in Sunday morning's game against Bromsgrove Town.

The Star and Garter team won 2-1 and players relived the match with the aid of a video that lunchtime.

"Steve was in high spirits, enjoying a drink after the game," said Mick Bradbury, who used to play football with him.

"He is the man everyone wants at their party. He just has you in stitches, he's the life and soul.

"I couldn't believe it when I heard what had happened to him. I was gobsmacked."

A neighbour in Albert Road, where Mr Halsall lives with his wife, Christine and their teenage daughters, also spoke of her shock at hearing the news.

"I have known him for a long time and I can't understand who would want to bash him up," said Mrs Anne Woodward.

"He is a jovial sort of person, always full of jokes."

Police believe the incident could be linked to a fight involving up to 30 people, near the Star and Garter around 10.20pm on Sunday night.

They are studying CCTV footage in an effort to trace the route he took from High Street to the car park behind the Halifax bank, where he was found.

Anyone with any information should contact Droitwich police on 08457 444 888, quoting 29C 081203.