POLICE are investigating the mystery of a teenager found unconscious with head injuries at the entrance to an Accrington night spot.

Peter Clarke, 18, of Cambridge Drive, Knuzden, was rushed to Blackburn Infirmary after being found near the bottom of steps outside Churchills bar, in Cannon Street.

Police say they are keeping an open mind on whether the teenager fell or was assaulted, and are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

His mother Mrs Lorraine Clarke is also hoping witnesses can shed light on how her son ended up unconscious as he recovers at home.

She said: "It's going through my head all the time trying to piece together what really happened."

A scan revealed a clot at the back of his head and the teenager was detained in hospital for observation over the weekend. He also suffered cuts to his lip which needed stitches, and a broken nose.

Police said he regained consciousness several hours later but had no recollection of the incident when paramedics were called to Churchills at 1.10am on Friday. Sergeant Mark Rothwell, of Accrington police, said: "We have an open mind at this stage as to how he came by his injuries. They may well be as a result of a fall, or he could have been assaulted."

"We want to know if anybody in Churchills on Thursday night or the early hours of Friday saw Mr Clarke and if they saw him either fall, or being assaulted, or if anyone was seen arguing with him."

Mr Clarke, a machine operator at B Robinson and Co, Blackburn, had become separated from a friend and is believed to have been on his way out of the premises.

Mrs Clarke said: "Police said two bouncers at the door have said they did not see anything but saw four lads running down the street."

Mr Clarke was wearing a blue and white bubble jacket and light brown cord trousers. Anyone with information is asked to contact Accrington police station on 01254 382141.

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