A TEENAGER has appeared before Blackburn magistrates charged in connection with a machete attack on another youth in Rishton.

The 17-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. He was remanded on bail to appear before the youth court.

Diane Jackson, prosecuting, said the incident had occurred at a rave at the old paper mill in Rishton on Friday August 6.

The victim was attacked by a large group of youths. Police said there were up to 30 in the gang.

"The police say they are part of an organised crime gang known as the 'machete gang' which was involved in selling drugs in the area," said Miss Jackson.

"In this case the victim was hit on the back of the head with a machete causing a four-inch wound which bled profusely."