AN off-duty policeman from Leyland who was attacked by thugs is recovering at home after suffering head and internal injuries.

The constable, who doesn't want to be named for security reasons, was walking home after a night out in the town centre when he was confronted by a gang of four youths outside the Golden Fry chip shop in Leyland Lane.

The gang -- three males and a female -- tried to steal from his pockets before verbally abusing him as he was walking off towards Cowling Lane.

The 38-year-old married man, who works at Chorley Police Station, became aware that he was being followed and that beer cans were being thrown at him.

As he reached the junction of Leyland Lane and Cowling Lane, the youths became violent. He tried to defend himself but was knocked to the ground and fell unconscious. The officer was rushed to Chorley Hospital's A&E department but, due to the severity of his injuries, was transferred to Preston Hospital with head and internal injuries.

Sergeant Blackburn, of Chorley police, paid tribute to the officer, who has worked for Lancashire Constabulary for the past nine years.

He said: "We are all very shocked and saddened by this brutal attack and wish him a very speedy recovery.

"He is a very effective and hard-working officer with a proven track record -- he has been commended for his work a number of times."

Enquires are continuing into the incident and police have interviewed a number of people in connection with the attack.

If you were in the area just after midnight on Saturday April 22 and may have information which could lead to the arrest of the gang, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.