A man is in a critical condition in hospital after a fight in Manchester city centre.

Around 3.15am on Saturday 29 May 2010, police were called by CCTV operators who had picked up a group of men fighting in Piccadilly Gardens.

The group ran off as police arrived, but one man was found seriously injured on the pavement.

He was taken to hospital for treatment to serious head injuries.

Detective Sergeant Paul Copplestone of Grey Mare Lane CID said: "What started out as a fight turned into a sickening attack, which has left a man seriously poorly in hospital.

"The city centre is always a very busy place so I am sure someone has seen something or if you were part of the group involved in the fight and wants to tell us what has happened, please get in touch."

Three men, all aged 18-years-old, were arrested on suspicion of section 18 assault and bailed until 20 July 2010 pending further inquiries.

Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 3240 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.