A MAN had to be taken to hospital with serious head injuries after being attacked outside a pub.

In the early hours of Sunday morning, a 32-year-old man was assaulted outside the Ugly Duckling pub on Bacup Road in Rawtenstall.

A 22-year-old man from Bacup was arrested on suspicion of wounding and remains in police custody.

Officers have now launched an investigation into the incident.

A spokesperson for the police said: "At around 1.35am a 32-year-old man was assaulted close to the Ugly Duckling on Bacup Road.

"The man suffered serious head injuries and was taken home by taxi before being transported to Royal Blackburn Hospital for treatment for a bleed on the brain.

"A man has since been arrested by police in connection with the investigation."

Detectives are now appealing for anyone with information to come forward and are particularly keen to speak to the taxi driver who took the man home.

Det Con Rik Clough, of Burnley CID, said: "This was a violent attack which has left a man needing treatment for a serious head injury.

"I would urge anyone who saw what happened, or can assist with our enquiries, to come forward.

"I am particularly keen to speak to any witnesses, anyone who could assist with CCTV recovery or the driver of the taxi who took the man and his associates home."

Anyone with information should call 101 or email 1035@lancashire.pnn.police.uk quoting log 0213 of August 30.