FAMILY and friends are being urged to help piece together the "missing hours" of a man left fighting for his life after a street attack.

Damien Philip Smyth, 29, was found unconscious by a passer-by in Albert Street, near the junction with Ridge Road, Burnley, shortly after 3am on Saturday.

A man and a woman have been arrested by police in connection with the incident and released on bail pending further inquiries.

Mr Smyth, who lives outside the town, was taken to Burnley General Hospital suffering from serious head injuries.

He has been transferred to Hope Hospital, Salford, which specialises in the treatment of serious head injuries. His condition was today described as critical but stable.

Detectives are today appealing for information and are particularly keen to speak to friends or work colleagues of Mr Smyth to try to trace his movements in the hours before the assault.

Det Insp Dermott Horrigan, who is leading the inquiry, said: "This was an attack, which appears to be motiveless.

"We would like to speak to anyone who witnessed the attack or who has any information about this crime.

"We want to know what he was doing and where he was in the hours before the attack.

"It would be very helpful for anyone who knows the victim to get in contact." Residents in the quiet terrace street near Turf Moor today spoke of the shock.

One woman, who asked not to be named, said: "I heard what had happened and it's dreadful. I didn't know the man, but I hope he is OK."

Another man added: "The first I knew was when I saw the police in the street on Saturday morning.

"It's a terrible thing to happen on your doorstep."

Anyone with information should call Burnley police on 01282 425001 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.