A MAN who wanted to buy cigarettes at a service station in Rawtenstall was attacked and punched in the face and head after asking a man for a bottle opener.
The 22-year-old, who does not want to be identified, was returning from a New Year's Eve Party when he stopped off at the Shell Service Station in Queen Square roundabout to get some cigarettes.
His friends continued home in a taxi while he went into the shop at about 6am. He had some bottles from the party and asked an Asian man in the shop for a bottle opener.
When he did, police say he was punched again and again in the face by the man.
He was then pushed against the shelves by the man who followed him outside and started hitting him in the face until he fell to the floor.
He then removed the bottle and smashed it before running off.
Police are checking CCTV footage to try to identify the man and are appealing for anyone who was in the area returning home after being out on New Year's Eve who saw the man to call.
The victim suffered a a cut to the back of his head, and graze to his hands and elbow.
Anyone with information can contact PC Muz Patela on 01282 425001.
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