Police are appealing for information following an incident where a man was assaulted and then taken to a garage where he was punched and kicked.

The incident occurred between 4.30pm and 7.30pm on September 4 in Blackburn.

Police in particular would like to trace a passer-by who stopped and offered to call an ambulance.

The victim, a 31-year-old man, was hit to his head before falling unconscious, somewhere at the rear of Revidge Road. He was then taken to a garage at the Wagtail Quarry site where he was further punched and kicked. He was driven back to Revidge Road, where he was threatened, before the offender made off.

The victim was treated at Royal Blackburn Hospital for fractures to his face.

Police would now like to speak to anybody with information about this incident, and in particular would like to trace a man who is believed to have seen all or part of the assault, and who stopped and offered to call an ambulance.

DC Shanaz Kone, of Blackburn Police, said: “This was an unprovoked attack which left the victim needing surgery for serious facial injuries.

“We appreciate that several weeks have passed since this incident occurred but our enquiries are very much ongoing and we are keen to speak to anybody who saw the incident or has information about it.

“We would also like to locate the man who stopped and offered to call an ambulance, as we believe he may have seen at least part of the incident. If you know who he is – or indeed, if this is you – please get in touch as soon as possible.”

Police have since arrested a 46-year-old man from Blackburn on suspicion of a section 18 assault. He has been bailed until December 6.

Anybody with information should contact us on 101, quoting log 213.

Alternatively independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.