THE FAMILY of a 64-year-old man who suffered a brutal attack at the hands of a violent thug has spoken out.

Philip Grimshaw was knocked out as he was walking home from Bold Street Working Men’s Club in Accrington on Sunday night.

The grandfather-of-five, who had gone to the club to have a drink with friends, is in Royal Blackburn Hospital with a bleed on his brain, a broken nose and ribs.

His attacker, who the police are searching for, ran from the scene with Mr Grimshaw’s wallet which contained cash and keys.

Mr Grimshaw’s daughter, Clare McKenna, said the family are outraged and distraught over the attack.

She said: “We can’t believe that this has happened to him.

“He is the kindest, most helpful man you could meet and the least-deserving of this.

“He will never be the same again. Dad loves to pop out and about and nothing like this has happened before. But this will affect him and the way he lives his life.”

Mr Grimshaw had been out for a meal with his wife before he decided to stop by the club on his way home.

He left at around 11.30pm and, as he was heading home along Park Street, noticed a man coming towards him. He was then hit on the head and left unconscious on the street.

He regained consciousness and was able to walk the short distance home.

Mrs McKenna said: “We want to find whoever did this.

“Nobody should have to go through this kind of thing and we will do all we can to raise awareness so the attacker is caught and nobody else falls victim.”

DC Phil Scott said: “This was an utterly deplorable attack on a man making his way home after enjoying a few drinks with friends.

“He is currently in hospital after suffering significant head and facial injuries. If you saw anything, or know anything about this, please get in contact with us.”

Anybody with information is asked to contact police on 01282 475518 quoting log number 0007.

Or you can call 101 or email 3969@lancashire.pnn.police.uk