Man charged in connection with Packer Street assault which has left a man fighting for his life

Photo: Brian Jackson

Police

A man has been charged in connection with an assault in Rochdale which has left a man fighting for his life.

Adam Farrell, 35, has been charged with racially aggravated section 20 assault.

He has been remanded into custody ahead of an appearance at Manchester and Salford Magistrates' Court today (28 February).

The victim was found unconscious on Packer Street at around 3.15am on Sunday 27 February.

Enquiries have established that the man, who's believed to be in his 30s, had been punched and had subsequently fallen to the floor.

He remains in hospital in a critical condition.

Detective Inspector Matthew Hamer, of GMP's Rochdale district, said: "This assault has left the victim fighting for his life. It is our hope that he makes a full recovery.

"Though two suspects are in custody, our investigation is very much ongoing and I would like to appeal to anyone with information to contact us.

"This happened at the end of a night out so it is likely members of the public and taxi drivers witnessed it and may have mobile phone or dashcam footage to assist us."

A spokesperson for the local Pubwatch scheme partnership, where licensees unify as an independent group to preempt crime and anti-social behaviour, said: "Each week thousands of people enjoy the town centre's growing food and drink offer and incidents like this are rare, venue and partners work responsibly to ensure Rochdale town centre is a safe and welcoming place.

"The town centre's growing mix of dining, entertainment and culture supports jobs, and continues to attract visitors.

"To support this growing offer, we will continue to work with all venues, police, licensing and street pastors, along with CCTV and the radio network to ensure we maintain a safe town centre that is welcoming to all."

Anyone with information should contact Greater Manchester Police quoting 476 27/02/22 via 0161 856 8512 or gmp.police.uk. Information can also be shared anonymously via, the independent charity - Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.