A MAN has suffered head injuries after being assaulted when he challenged five people who attempted to burgle a business, police say.

The incident happened in Haydock this evening (Thursday, November 30) at a property on Clipsley Lane.

Police say that shortly before 8.40pm they were called to a report the group had assaulted the victim, a man in his 40s.

Stable condition

The victim has been treated for lacerations to his finger and head. He is in a stable condition in hospital.
 
The offenders, who were described as five youths wearing black and with their faces covered, ran away towards Central Drive and the duck pond.
 
Police say it was reported they had attempted to break into the property and when disturbed by the victim, attacked him in a rear entry.

Search for attackers

A Merseyside Police statement read: “Enquiries are ongoing in the area to locate the offenders, assisted by the National Police Air Service helicopter.
 
“There is a short closure on Clipsley Lane, between Squires Close and Wagon Lane, to allow detectives to conduct forensic enquiries at the scene.”

Haydock residents took to social media to express shock at the incident, which led to police swarming over the estate.

Despicable attack

Detective Inspector Jimmy Rotheram added: “Nobody has the right to force entry into someone’s property, and it is despicable to think that this victim to be assaulted and injured while trying to stop the offenders.

“Burglary - whether it is of a residential home or a business - is an invasive crime that victims can really struggle to come to terms with. Everyone has the right to feel safe in their home, and business owners have every right to work hard and earn a living without criminals causing physical and emotional damage in this way.

“If you saw anything suspicious in the area of Clipsley Lane on Friday evening, please get in touch so that we can bring those responsible to justice.”