Postman 'left for dead' after vicious attack

[TrueBlueTerrier]

http://www.clitheroeadvertiser.co.uk/cl ... 4808735.jp

A FOOTPRINT mark was left on the face of a Clitheroe man in a "vicious and unprovoked attack" outside a town centre club.
Ian Higgins, of Turner Street, claims he was left for dead in a pool of blood when he was knocked to the ground, stamped on and received a number of blows to the head.

He sustained multiple facial injuries and a fractured eye socket after being beaten up outside Clitheroe Social Club, Wellgate.

The brawl took place just before midnight on Saturday when the town was busy with football fans and players following Clitheroe FC's 3-3 home draw with Lancashire rivals Bamber Bridge.

Three men were arrested and released on police bail pending further inquiries.

A 27-year-old man from Bury was arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and possession of Class A drugs.

A 24-year-old man from the Radcliffe area and an 18-year-old from Blackburn, were also arrested on suspicion of assault.

Ian, who works as a postman, was released from the Royal Blackburn Hospital on Sunday afternoon.

Reliving his ordeal, he said: "I was out with my girlfriend for a quiet drink and there were a lot of football fans in the club.

"We were just about to leave when I was chased by a gang of about 20 lads.

"The next thing is I know is that I was in a hospital bed surrounded by family.

"Luckily, I remember nothing of the attack, however, my girlfriend told me how the lads ran after me and then knocked me to the ground and kicked me repeatedly.

"I'm in a lot of pain as I was stamped on the right side of my face.

"I am due to go back into hospital to have a metal plate inserted in my face. It's been very distressing."

Ian's mother, Rachel, is appealing for witnesses to come forward.

"This was an appalling attack and our family has been extremely distressed by it. We would urge any witnesses who saw Ian being attacked to come forward and contact police as soon as possible."

Mrs Higgins went on to thank officials at the social club for all their help.

Mr Neil Reynolds, manager of Clitheroe FC, said there were lots of people involved in the brawl and until CCTV footage has been examined, it could not be determined who was at fault.

He said: "The message is that we won't tolerate anybody bringing the club into disrepute.

"If they were in the wrong we won't tolerate it and they will be suspended from the club pending an inquiry after we have seen the CCTV footage."

Sgt Rob Evans, of Clitheroe Police, said: "This is a serious incident and we are appealing for witnesses to call police on 01200 443344, or the free and confidential Crimestoppers line on 0800 555111."