TWO Radcliffe men have been sentenced to a total of 13 years imprisonment for seriously assaulting a married father-of-three, leaving him with permanent injuries.

Jeff Cooke, aged 26, was attacked in Water Street outside the Royal Oak public house by a group of men shortly after 11pm on Saturday March 23 last year.

He was taken to Fairfield General Hospital's intensive care unit where he was kept on a ventilator for a week.

Mr Cooke suffered serious head injuries which could have a permanent effect and is still undergoing treatment.

David Michael Graham, aged 24, of Hacking Street. Lower Broughton, was found guilty of one count of Section 18 assault and two counts of Section 47 assault. He was jailed for seven years.

Scott Anthony Taylor, aged 22, of Derbyshire Walk was found guilty of one count of Section 18 assault and was sentenced to six years imprisonment. The two men were jailed yesterday at Bolton Crown Court.

Mr Cooke and a friend had been drinking in the Royal Oak and were making their way home when they were attacked by a group of between four and six men.

One of the attackers is reported to have stamped on his head as he lay unconscious in the street.

DC Stuart Barker from Whitefield CID today said: "Mr Cooke suffered terribly at the hands of these men and today's sentences demonstrate that mindless violence of this nature will not be tolerated.

"Mr Cooke is still recovering from the ordeal and the injuries he suffered may have a permanent affect on his health.

"I only hope that today's result can help Mr Cooke and his family put this terrible experience behind them." A further two men who appeared in court were acquitted.

SIX YEARS: Scott Anthony Taylor

SEVEN YEARS: David Michael Graham