A TEENAGER was violently attacked twice on the same night in Accrington town centre.

Police believe the first set of attackers alerted another group who lay in waiting.

The 17-year-old, from Darwen was on his way home from a night out in Accrington with his friend when they were approached by two men.

The victim was repeatedly punched and kicked on the corner of St James Street and Blackburn Road.

The teenagers managed to escape and as they made off they were approached by another two offenders who then continued the attack.

Police believe that one of the first two offenders contacted the second offenders on his mobile telephone during the first attack.

The incident happened on Friday December 7 however police have only just released details.

PC Steve Hilton said: "This appears to be a completely unprovoked attack on a young man. Both have been left shaken as a result of the incident and it is important that we identify the people responsible as soon as possible.

"I urge anyone with information about the incident to come forward."

The offenders from the first attack are described as white men.

One was 5ft 2ins to 5ft 4ins tall, aged in his late 20s with short blonde hair. He had a medium build and was wearing jeans and black shoes. The second man was between 5ft 10ins and 5ft 11ins tall, with a thin build and short black hair.

An investigation is underway and police are urging anyone with information to contact the police on 0845 1 25 35 45 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.