A TEENAGE boy was badly beaten in an unprovoked attack.

The 16-year-old was walking to a local shop through Lockyer Avenue park, Burnley, just before 7pm on Monday when he was hit from behind, knocking him to the ground.

He was then kicked as he lay on the floor, with blows landing in his face and leaving him badly bruised.

Officers said the teenager was unable to see his attackers throughout the incident, though heard laughing as he was kicked, and has told police he believes a group of men were involved.

Police are now appealing for anyone who was in the park at the time and may have seen what happened to get in touch.

They are also calling on members of the group, who may have seen the attack take place but not been directly involved, to come forward.

Inspector Vicky Croken, of Burnley police, said: "He has been quite lucky in that he just ended up with bruises and minor scratched but this was a nasty attack and it could have been much worse.

"He has told us he has not had any arguments with anyone and he doesn't know why someone would want to attack him. It does seem completely unprovoked.

"We want to hear from anyone who saw what happened. It was early on in the evening and still light so it's quite likely that someone knows what has gone on."

Anyone with information about the attack should contact Sergeant Bill Carter, investigating the incident, on 01282 425001.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers free and confidentially on 0800 555 111.