POLICE are appealing for witnesses following an attack on a man who was taking three young children to school.

The victim of the assault was taken to hospital with a serious head injury after he was hit over the head with a heavy duty bike chain.

Police at Accrington were expected to question a man his 40s later today in connection with the incident.

The 21-year-old man from Oswaldtwistle was attacked on Countess Street in Accrington in view of children and parents.

A passing motorist took the injured man to Victoria Hospital and he was later moved to Blackburn Royal Infirmary where he had eight stitches in a head wound.

Det Inspector Jim Oldcorn, head of Accrington CID, said: "This was a violent unprovoked attack on a young man taking his children to school.

"Not only was this a frightening incident for the victim it must have also been very disturbing and upsetting for his children."

DI Oldcorn added: "We have arrested a man following the attack but we are still in the process of gathering information.

"The area was very busy at the time and there were other parents with children.

"If anyone can help the police inquiries they should contact us as soon as possible."

The number to ring with information is 01254 382141.

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