One of Britain's richest businessman suffered a head injury when he was attacked by intruders at his mansion in Staffordshire.

Former Phones4U chief John Caudwell and his partner, Claire Johnson, were both assaulted during the raid at Broughton Hall, near Eccleshall.

Staffordshire Police confirmed that Mr Caudwell, who sold the Caudwell Group for a reported £1.4 billion in 2006, sustained a one-inch gash to his forehead and bruising to his arms.

Officers believe the 57-year-old, who went to hospital for a check-up, was struck with an iron bar by the offenders, who were wearing dark clothing and balaclavas.

After assaulting Mr Caudwell, the men, who took a quantity of cash and jewellery, escaped from the historic hall by running across fields near the property.

Police said no firearms were seen or used during the break-in, in which a 22-year-old female member of staff was also assaulted.

Ms Johnson, 41, and the staff members were uninjured and are not thought to have been struck with a weapon.

In recent years, Mr Caudwell has become well known for his work with Caudwell Children, a charity that provides specialist equipment, treatment and therapies for sick, autistic and disabled youngsters across the UK.

Mr Caudwell set up the charity in March 2000 and later sold the Caudwell Group, enabling him to dedicate more time to his family and charity work.

Detectives are appealing to anyone who saw any suspicious activity or vehicles in or around Broughton Hall or the surrounding villages on Monday to contact them.