A MAN in hospital in critical condition after being found unconscious with head injuries near Alexandra Palace was carrying £700 in cash.

The unknown man, believed to be in his 60s, was discovered slumped near a bench in the grounds of the Haringey's landmark building yesterday morning.

He was carrying no ID and just had the sum on money on his person. Police are trying to establish the circumstances surrounding his serious injuries but said they were keeping "an open mind".

DS Stuart Robinson, of Haringey CID, said: "The man had no identification on him and, as yet, no one has come forward to identify him, so we are appealing to the public to call us with any information which may help us. This man may have family and friends who are desperately worried about his welfare and we need to trace them urgently.

"We also need to speak with anyone that was in the area on the morning of Wednesday, January 5, before 11.15am, particularly those who waited with the injured man until the arrival of the ambulance but left before speaking with officers. They may be able to tell us something that could help us piece together how this man came to sustain his injuries."

The man is described as approx 5ft 8ins to 5ft 10ins tall, with grey balding hair and a white/grey beard. He was wearing a dark green blazer with a blue fleece underneath, black trousers, brown boots and a chequered flat cap.

Anyone with information is asked to contact DS Stuart Robinson on 020 8345 0838. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.