A 45-YEAR-OLD man suffered serious head injuries when he was assaulted in Padiham.

The incident happened on Saturday as the victim and his friend walked in Park Road, near to the leisure centre.

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Police said they believed the pair became involved in an argument with a group of four men, who then attacked them.

Both men suffered head injuries and were taken to the Royal Preston Hospital. Detectives said the 45-year-old was last night in a serious but stable condition.

His friend, 48, also needed treatment.

Coun John Harbour, who represents the Gawthorpe ward, said he was shocked to hear about the assault, which happened between 5.30pm and 5.45pm. He said: “I am appalled to hear this attack has happened and that two people have been hurt, with one of them seriously injured.

“We are not used to this kind of thing happening in Padiham and it is not something we want to get used to hearing about.

“Hopefully the people responsible will be quickly brought to justice and the men will make a speedy recovery.” A police investigation has been launched and detectives are appealing for anybody who might have information that could help with their investigation to come forward.

Det Insp Nick Hodgeson said: “This was a nasty attack in which a man has received very serious injuries. I would like to reassure members of the public that this is an isolated attack and that we have arrested three men in connection with this incident.”

Three 20-year-old men - Blake Dawtrey, Oliver Chadwick and Craig Wilkinson - have been charged and were due to appear before Burnley Magistrates’ Court today.