A YOUNG woman sustained an horrific face wound after a neighbourhood barbecue ended in a street brawl.

The 20-year-old has undergone surgery for a gash from her ear to her mouth and was still in Blackburn Infirmary today, along with three other men who were injured in the incident.

Neighbours said the people were injured after a barbecue at the house of Steven Derbyshire and his family in Bridge Street, Rishton. The injured woman is his daughter Jessica and is said to be comfortable in hospital today.

Police said the incident came after family and friends gathered in the front garden for a barbecue to enjoy the heatwave.

Det Insp Pet Broome said violence came at the end of the party, around 11pm on Wednesday, and spilled into nearby Spring Street.

Officers were in the area yesterday obtaining witness statements and he said they were beginning to build a picture of what happened.

He added: "The barbecue dispute erupted around 11pm after two men approached the house in Bridge Street.

"They tried to gatecrash the party, but after they were refused entry, a bust-up happened that quickly led to a large public disorder that involved more than 30 people.

"People were wielding snooker cues, broken pick axe handles and pieces of wood. What followed was a number of serious injuries.

"The young woman was sliced from mouth to ear and has undergone surgery. The others, who also needed medical treatment, received serious wounds consistent with being clubbed.

"This was a very serious incident. We have built a picture of what happened, but if anyone has any information they can contact Great Harwood police on 01254 353341."

Two men were arrested in connection with offences of assault and were being interview by police.