A MAN had his wallet stolen after he was attacked in the street on Christmas Day, police said.

Police have appealed for witnesses following the attack where a gang assaulted the man in Wickliffe Street, Nelson, in the early hours of Christmas Day morning.

The attackers took the 37-year-old victim's wallet containing a large amount of cash, police said.

He was taken to the Royal Blackburn Hospital with head injuries, which were not believed to be serious.

It is believed the attack took place in the street and the man contacted the police from his home address.

A police spokesperson said: "There was an assault in Wickliffe Street, Nelson, where a male has been attacked.

"The man said he had been out drinking throughout the evening and was returning to his girlfriend's house.

"And as he has gone back towards the house he alleges a number of males, completely unprovoked, have assaulted him and took his wallet.

"The wallet had a large amount of money in it.

"The 37-year-old has gone to hospital as a result of the attack.

"He was attacked by four people.

"His injuries are not thought to be life threatening.

"It is possible his jaw may have been broken but he is up and walking around in the hospital."

A spokesperson for the ambulance service said: "At 3.41am on Christmas Day morning a 37-year-old was assaulted. He was attacked by four males and suffered head injuries.

"These injuries are not thought to be life threatening."

Anyone with information should contact the police on 01282 425001.