A WOMAN and two men suspected of attacking a couple after a night out are being hunted by police.

CCTV images of the three suspects has been released by Lancashire police following the incident in Burnley which saw the 27-year-old male victim punched and kicked by all three attackers.

The assault took place in St James’ Street, in the town centre.

Two of the suspects, a man and a woman, approached the victims and asked the man if he had a lighter.

The man explained he did not have one, at which point the attacker became abusive and started to fight him. The victim fell to the floor, at which point a second male attacker joined in the assault and punched him.

The woman also threw punches at the man before all three attackers fled the scene. PC Trevor Syrett from Burnley Police said the victim was lucky to escape without serious injuries following the attack at around 3.15am on July 27.

He said: “Fortunately the victim only sustained minor injuries but I would appeal to anybody that recognises either of the men or the woman in the CCTV images to come forward and call police on 101.”

People with information can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or on-line at Crimestoppers-uk.org .