POLICE in Burnley have launched a search for a group of mystery heroes who helped save the lives of two women bobbies.

The five or six young men, aged in their late teens or early 20s, stepped in to help two female officers who came under attack whilst dealing with a drunken woman outside the Plane Tree Pub, Westgate, in the town at around 10.00pm on Tuesday.

Police said the officers had been called to the pub after CCTV cameras spotted a drunken woman outside. A passing bus driver also called police to report seeing the woman.

Police said it appeared the woman and a second female turned on the police officers when they arrived at the scene and subjected them to a serious assault.

Both officers, who have not been named, received cuts and bruises during the attack and are currently off work.

Inspector Dave Croll from Burnley Police said: "The officers were responding to a call from a local bus driver and whilst trying to deal with an offender they became the subject of an assault.

"The whole incident was captured on CCTV, including the valiant efforts of these young men. We would very much like to trace them so that we can thank them in person and I would be more than happy for them to contact me direct.

"However, if they wish to remain anonymous, then I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their assistance. Their actions were highly commendable and very much appreciated."

He added: "Quite often it's the negative behaviour of young people which hits the headlines. However, this case highlights that there are still a great deal of young people who do care and are willing to go that extra mile to assist."

Anyone who knows who the have-a-go heroes are can contact Inspector Dave Croll at Burnley Police on 01282 472103 or the newsdesk at the Lancashire Evening Telegraph Burnley office on 01282 423161.