A GOOD Samaritan was 'knocked out cold' when he confronted a gang abusing a train guard on a station platform.

The 67-year-old man was left with a broken cheek bone, two black eyes and a bruised temple in the single punch attack.

Detectives described the incident at Accrington Railway Station as 'incredibly violent and unprovoked'.

The victim, who has no recollection of the attack, was knocked unconscious by the force of the blow to his face and left with concussion.

It is thought he may have received his other injuries when he fell and struck his head on the concrete platform.

Officers said the man was a regular user of the Burnley to Blackpool North service and was returning alone from a day out.

He was taken to Royal Blackburn Hospital where he was still receiving treatment yesterday.

Officers said the attack took place after a group of men on the platform started verbally abusing a female guard aboard the train.

The victim, who is from the Preston area, got off the Blackburn bound service and challenged a member of the gang at 8.45pm on Tuesday.

DC Chris Biggs, investigating, said: "This gentleman was acting in a public spirited way and took exception to the terrible abuse being shown to a member of staff.

"He stepped in to defend the female train guard, who was subjected to disgusting verbal abuse from a group of youths, and found himself the victim of an incredibly violent, unprovoked assault.

“He was knocked unconscious on the floor and is still in hospital.

“I would like to speak to anyone who was at the station, perhaps on the train or platform, who may have seen or heard what happened.

"Any piece of information, no matter how insignificant it may seem to you, could help with our inquiries.

“Fortunately violent incidents like this are rare, and I am sure that most people in the community will shocked to hear about this upsetting assault.

"I would like to reassure those concerned that we are investigating and we will bring those responsible to justice.”

The attacker was described as Asian, around 18 to 22-years-old, 6ft 2ins tall and was wearing a blue hooded anorak and black tracksuit bottoms.

Four people have been arrested on suspicion of assault in connection with the attack.

They are a 17-year-old boy from Rossendale and three men aged 19, 22 and 18, all from Accrington.

They have all been bailed pending further enquiries.

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to call British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 or text information to 61016, quoting reference number 258 9/2/17.