A MAN was attacked as he was climbing into his car with his young son by a thief who stole takeaway food.

The 27-year-old victim had just bought the food from a shop in Willows Lane, Accrington.

He had put the food and his son into his car, and was attacked from behind by a man.

The victim suffered serious facial injuries and is waiting to undergo operations.

After stealing the food the offender ran off along Blackburn Road towards Church.

He is described as being about 6ft 2in, of stocky build and aged between 25 and 30.

He was clean shaven, with a long, pale face and mousey-coloured goatee beard, and was wearing a black T-shirt, green combat trousers and a small silver earring in his left ear.

The attacker may have been with two other men, who ran off in the same direction. One of them was heard to have shouted in a Liverpool or 'travellers' accent.

The incident happened on Friday, May 28, but police have only just released details.

Sergeant Claire Holbrook, of Accrington Police, said: "This was an unprovoked attack that the police are treating very seriously.

"The motive for this robbery may have been the theft of the vehicle."

Anyone who can help should call Accrington CID on 01254 353742.