A POLISH man was beaten by a gang armed with baseball bats and a sword after he challenged a six-year-old boy who was throwing missiles at a house.

The 35-year-old had been helping a Polish family move from their home in Royds Street, Accrington, around 2pm on Monday when a group of children began throwing objects at the property.

He went up to the group, grabbed a six-year-old boy to take him to the police station but he burst into tears and managed to wiggle free.

Minutes later a black and white van pulled up in front of the house and a group of at least three men jumped out armed with weapons.

They then beat the man, who has been left with cuts and bruises including a cut to the top of his head.

He was today being treated at Royal Blackburn Hospital.

Detectives, who have described the attack as ‘cowardly’ and ‘horrendous,’ said the man managed to escape and made his way to the police station.

Officers contacted the ambulance service and administered first aid.

Detectives seized the van and it was examined by forensic experts.

One man was described as white, 5ft 9in, in his 40s with a large build.

He had very short brown hair and was wearing casual clothing and carrying a baseball bat.

Another man was described as white, in his late 20s, slim, wearing casual clothing and carrying a 2ft bladed sword.

DS Mark Gillibrand said: “This was a cowardly and horrendous attack on this man.

“He was outnumbered by the men who produced weapons to hurt him but fortunately he was not severely injured.

“It appears as though he was attacked over a relatively trivial incident while he was simply helping a family, who were having problems in the area, to move.

“I would appeal for anyone with information or anyone who witnessed the incident to contact us.

“I would also urge people who have come across the van or have used it to get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Accrington CID on 01254 353742.