A MAN was left with a fractured skull after a gang armed with swords attacked him in a Burnley.

Detectives said the 21-year-old victim was chased down a street before being set upon by a group of men wearing balaclavas in a ‘targeted attack’.

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The victim suffered a fractured skull, slash wounds to his body and arms and a fractured eye socket following the morning attack in Hebrew Road, Daneshouse.

He was airlifted to hospital and was still receiving treatment for his injuries last night.

Officers said the gang were carrying ‘bladed weapons including knives and swords’ during the attack, which happened shortly after 11.30am on Sunday.

A 19-year-old man from Burnley was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

He has now been released on bail until January 31, 2017.

Detectives said they expect to make further arrests imminently.

Police patrols have been stepped up in the area.

Detectives are appealing for anyone who witnessed the ‘shocking and violent’ attack to come forward.

Detective Inspector Mark Vaughton, who is leading the investigation, said: “We believe that this was a targeted attack on a man known to his assailants.

“This was a shocking attack carried out in broad daylight and by a number of men armed with weapons.

“The level of violence used was obscene.

“It has left a man with substantial and serious injuries, although thankfully he is now recovering well in hospital.

“This serious assault happened in the middle of the day and I would appeal for anyone who saw what happened or who knows anything to get in touch with the police.”

Officers did not confirm which hospital the victim was being treated in but said his injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.

Anyone with information is asked to call police, quoting log number 550 of November 13.