POLICE have issued an appeal for witnesses after two teenagers were knocked unconscious in a vicious attack.

One of the 17-year-olds suffered a broken cheekbone and nose in the attack, which happened as the pair were making their way home from a 40th birthday party.

PC John Molloy, who is investigating the offence, said the victims have no clue about their attackers.

"No descriptions of anyone have been given to us by the victims becasue they were knocked unconscious," said PC Molloy.

However, a number of statements have given police clues they hope will lead to identifying the attackers.

Pc Molloy said: "The victims were on their way home from a 40th birthday party at the kiosk in Sunnyhurst Woods.

"They left at about 11.45pm and on their way home it is believed they encountered a group of about 11 people stood near to the Woodvale Flats. "Words were exchanged and the group started chasing the two youths.

"The youths went down an alleyway near to the disused Royal Oak pub on Wood Street. They were cornered by the group and set upon.

"This was a vicious attack which was apparently unprovoked."

The victims managed to regain consciousness and make their way home before being taken to hospital by ambulance.

One victim was kept in at Blackburn Royal Infirmary for two days with his broken bones. The other suffered minor injuries to his face and was discharged early on Sunday morning.

The attack happned last Saturday and police are hoping their appeal will jog people's memories a week on.

PC Molloy said: "I would ask anyone who may have seen this group of youths hanging about in the Woodvale Flats area or who may have seen the chase to contact us. It is vital we track them down so we can help arrest those reponsible for this vicious crime.

"The two lads were left deeply traumatised by what happened and are still recovering from their injuries."

Anyone with information on this offence is asked to contact Darwen Police on 01254 701777.