A MAN has suffered serious injuries after he was allegedly hit over the head with a hammer.

At 2.38pm on Thursday, police were called to Raven Road in Southampton.

This came after reports of a man being hit in the head with a hammer outside the Royal South Hants Hospital.

The victim, a man in his 40's was initially taken inside the hospital for treatment before being taken to Southampton General Hospital with serious injuries.

At this time, the injuries are not believed to be life threatening.

Now, a 48-year-old man from Waterlooville has been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent.

He currently remains in custody.

A spokesperson for NHS Property Services that runs the Royal South Hants Hospital said: “On Thursday afternoon, a number of colleagues witnessed an incident on Ravens Road.

"It was immediately reported to police who promptly attended the scene along with the ambulance service.

"A male was taken to the Urgent Care Unit in Royal South Hants Hospital for treatment.

"We are thankful for the swift action taken by hospital staff and will continue to assist police in their ongoing investigation.”

One witness said: "He had blood streaming down his head and it was just a horrible mess. It was quite shocking."

Police are now asking anyone who witnessed or has any information on the incident to call them on 101 quoting 44210248472.