A MAN was struck over the head with a claw hammer in an attack in a Kidlington pub.

Two men were in custody last night after the attack at the Red Lion pub, in Banbury Road, pictured.

The victim, who is in his 60s, is recovering from what was described as a serious head injury.

He was attacked at about 5.30pm on Monday.

Fellow drinkers had to defend themselves with bar stools from the attackers.

The victim was taken to the John Radcliffe Hospital but was allowed home after treatment.

Det Insp Steve Duffy said: “I appeal to anyone who was in the Red Lion who hasn’t spoken to us already to contact police immediately.

“At this stage, it’s still unclear if the attack was unprovoked, so I urge anyone with information that could assist our inquiries to get in touach.”

The pub remained closed for most of yesterday.

Joint manager Emma Pearce said: “We’re very much a community pub and the safety of our customers is of the utmost importance to us.

“This was an isolated incident and we immediately called the police, who responded very promptly.

“We’re co-operating with the police inquiry and would urge anyone with information to call them.”

A local shopkeeper, who asked not to be named, said: “We saw lots of police turn up.

“We saw one guy being taken out of the hospital on a stretcher with bandages on his head.”

A 28-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of assault and possession of an offensive weapon. A 34-year-old man was later held in Luther Street, Oxford, on suspicion of the same offences and a burglary at J K News, in Abingdon Road, Oxford.