Seven men have been arrested after a man was left fighting for his life after an assault in Church Street.

Around 2.40am on February 16 a 20-year-old man was found with serious injuries at the junction with Church Street and Avenham Street, close to the Co-Op bank.

The victim, from Preston, had suffered several cuts, facial fractures and bleeds on the brain in the assault. He was taken to hospital for treatment and surgery, with his current condition described as critical.

Two other men, aged 19 and 20, were also attacked during the incident, suffering minor injuries.

Following extensive enquiries seven men have since been arrested by police in connection with the investigation.

Detectives are urging any witnesses to come forward.

Temp Det Sgt Richard Shires, of Preston CID, said: “We are appealing to any witnesses to come forward with information.

“While we have made a number of arrests, the victim remains in a coma and is currently in a critical condition at hospital.

“I would ask anyone with information, no matter how seemingly insignificant, to come forward and speak to police.

“A man is fighting for his life and we need to find those responsible.

“If you saw what happened please come forward immediately and speak to us.”

Anyone with information can contact police on (01772) 209803 or email 5147@lancashire.pnn.police.uk quoting log 0178 of February 16.

Alternatively you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Seven men, aged between 19 and 31, from Blackburn, have been arrested on suspicion of assault and later released under investigation.