TWO youths were being quizzed by detectives today after a man was left for dead in an alleyway following a vicious attack.

The pair, thought to be aged 16, were arrested after witnesses contacted police following the assault on Andrew Myerscough, 32, after he left his mother's house to catch a bus.

Mr Myerscough, of Accrington, remains in a critical condition at the Royal Preston Hospital following the attack, which occurred sometime between 7pm and 9pm on Wednesday in an alley off Jacob Street, Accrington.

He suffered serious head and chest injuries and has yet to regain consciousness as his family keep a bedside vigil.

The officer leading the investigation to find Mr Myerscough's attacker said the two youngsters were arrested yesterday afternoon.

Detective Superintendent Paul Buschini said: "Having spoken to people living in the area, it appears youths were around and acting suspiciously at the time of this very vicious assault.

"It is possible that Mr Myerscough was chased by these youths along Jacob Street.

"We would appeal to anyone who saw the youths or knows who they are to contact us." Police extended the cordoned-off area yesterday lunchtime to include Jacob Street as well as the overgrown alley where the assault took place.

Forensic experts have conducted a finger-tip search of the area while detectives have been drafted in from across the area to try and help catch the attacker.

Door-to-door inquires also took place yesterday.

Mr Buschini added: "It would appear the victim was on his way to catch a bus, having left the address he was living at, which is his mother's home.

"As far as we are aware, this was a completely motiveless but exceptionally vicious attack.

"This man has been left in intensive care because of this attack with very serious injuries."

Mr Myerscough was discovered by Keith Topper, who lives as a lodger with Margeret Wright in Jacob Street.

Mrs Wright said: "He heard a wailing noise when he went to put out the rubbish. We don't know how long he had been there. It is horrible to think it happened so close."

Mr Buschini added: "We would appeal to anyone who saw him between 7pm and 9pm to contact us."

Anyone with any information should call Accrington Police on 01254 382141 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.