A MAN from Chorley is fighting for his life after he was seriously assaulted while in prison awaiting trial, it has emerged.

Karl Hurley, 25, formerly of Coniston Road, remains in a coma after the attack, which is believed to have taken place in a cell inside Preston Prison.

Hurley was charged and remanded in custody last October with two counts of arson with intent to endanger life after a pensioner’s bungalow in Aspen Gardens, Chorley, was badly damaged in a wheelie bin fire.

He has also been charged with two counts of arson in connection with a fire at Dorothy Perkins, Chorley, on October 15, which caused £20,000 of damage.

Family members have been at his bedside at Royal Preston Hospital since he was admitted. His condition was yesterday described as critical.

Details of the attack two months ago emerged this week when his court appearance was adjourned.

A spokesman for Lancashire Police said: “We are investigating and assault at Preston Prison reported to us on March 4.

“A 25-year-old man remains in hospital and a 33-year-old man is due at Preston Crown Court for a plea and case management hearing after being arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent.”

Stuart Gardner, of HMP Preston, will appear at Preston Crown Court charged with the assault on May 9.

Comments unavailable on this story for legal reasons.