TWO 13-year-old boys were charged today after a youngster, attacked with a golf club, was found unconscious in a pool of blood.

The 15-year-old victim suffered head injuries after an incident in Cotton Street, Accrington.

A passer-by discovered the boy and called the emergency services.

The helper also covered the boy in a blanket to keep him warm until paramedics arrived.

It is not known how long the teenager had been lying in the street before he was discovered at around 8pm on Saturday.

His family were today at his bedside at Blackburn Royal Infirmary.

Although his injuries are serious, police say they are not life-threatening.

Paramedics, who treated him before he was taken to the hospital, said he had suffered extensive head, face and neck injuries and was lying in a pool of his own blood.

Police have been unable to interview the boy to take a statement because of his condition.

DS Mark Rothwell, of Accrington CID, said: "A 15 year-old has been involved in an incident which resulted in him receiving head injuries. "

Residents near the scene of the attack spoke of their shock today.

One, who did not wish to be named, said: "I didn't hear or see anything but you don't expect that kind of thing to happen on your doorstep. It is awful."

The two 13 year-old boys have been charged with assault.

A 43-year-old man has also been charged with aiding and abetting assault.

All three will appear before Hyndburn Magistrates on September 14.