FOOTBALL yobs attacked a guard during a clash on a late-night train as it travelled between Blackburn and Burnley.

The injured man was kicked in the groin and punched as he tried to break up a battle between Rovers and Clarets supporters at around midnight on Saturday.

The guard, who is in his mid-20s and lives in Chorley, raised the alarm when the train stopped at Church and was treated at Blackburn Infirmary before being released. It is believed the Blackburn fans at the centre of the disturbance got off the train at Rishton, before it could be boarded by police.

Now British Transport Police have appealed for any witnesses to the incident to contact them on 01772 253682.

The fight started just after the Blackpool South to Burnley train left Blackburn station. A group of Burnley fans returning from their team's victory at Wrexham and Rovers fans making their way from Ewood Park after the 1-1 draw with Arsenal began taunting each other.

Sgt Paul Moores said: "The train was running a bit late and soon after the fans met up a fight broke out.

"The guard was injured trying to break it up and, although he wasn't seriously injured, we want to catch the people responsible."

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