A MAN who was left with a fractured skull and bleed on the brain after being attacked in Padiham has been named.

Steven Atkinson, 51, was found in an alleyway between Bright Street and Pendle Street with head injuries remains in a serious condition in hospital.

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Councillors have been left shocked by the assault, but have stressed Padiham was a safe place to go out.

Padiham and Burnley West Councillor Marcus Johnstone said: “It’s shocking thing to have happened. I know the police are looking to whoever it was and I would urge anyone with information to come forward.

“It is a shock when something like this happens but people shouldn’t get carried away with the idea that Padiham is an unsafe place because this is very much an isolated incident.”

Padiham Mayor and Burnley ward councillor Jean Cunningham said: “I am absolutely devastated to hear this, It is shocking that this sort of thing can happen on your own doorstep.

“Things like this tend to happen in cities, not towns. I just don’t know what people are coming to. I hope the man makes a full recovery and my thoughts are with his family.”

Police were called to the incident at 11.15pm on Sunday by paramedics.

Mr Atkinson was taken to Royal Blackburn Hospital but was transferred to Royal Preston Hospital where his condition is described as serious. No arrests have been made and no suspect descriptions have been issued.

Det Insp Julie Cross aid: “This man has clearly suffered some serious injuries and from the enquiries we have made so far we believe that he may have been involved in some sort of altercation and we are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed anything or who has any information to get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting log number 1668 of February 28th.