POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a man was assaulted as he walked home from a night out.

The victim, 24, was walking along Burnley Road, Colne, at about 1am on Friday when he was approached by a man who tried to grab his mobile phone while he was sending a text message.

When the victim refused he was punched to the ground, but managed to wrestle free following a struggle and ran off.

His attacker was described as white, 6ft, late 20s, stocky, with short dark hair and wearing a grey tracksuit top.

Anyone with information should call Brent Fielden, Burnley police's street crime and robbery co-ordinator, on 01282 472159 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.