Two men assaulted during early hours of New Year's Day by three teenage boys

Photo: Google, DigitalGlobe

Upon reaching the junction of School Lane and Drake Street, the men were attacked

Two men were assaulted by three teenage boys during the early hours of New Year's Day.

Initial enquires suggest the pair were walking out of Rochdale town centre at around 5am, but upon reaching the junction of School Lane and Drake Street, were approached from behind by the boys.

One of the male suspects threatened both victims with a knife while another suspect kicked one of the victims in the face. As both victims fought back, one of the suspects threw a brick, hitting one of the victims in the face, causing a relatively serious head injury, before fleeing on foot back towards the town centre.

The three male suspects were seen prior to the attack outside St Chad’s Parish Church on the steps and have followed the victims a short distance onto Drake Street before attacking them.

The three suspects were male aged between 15-16 years of age, all wearing black track suits and bubble jackets.

Police are now appealing for further information.

Detective Constable Martin James of GMP's Rochdale district said: "We are looking to speak with anyone who may have been approached by or spoken with the three males who were waiting near to St Chad’s Parish Church in the early hours of New Years Day.

"It would seem the group were looking for what they believed to be vulnerable targets whom they could attack. However, on this occasion it would seem the quick thinking of both victims prevented a more serious incident unfolding, forcing the attackers to flee.

"If you have any information in regard to this incident or have any CCTV or dashcam footage around the St Chad’s Parish Church and Drake Street outside the Citizens Advice Bureau between 4.45am – 5.05am, contact GMP.

"You can report information in regard to this incident please call 101, report on our website https://orlo.uk/DEplx quoting log 1134 of 01/01/2023.

"Alternatively, you can report information to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."