Police appeal for witnesses to axe attack

Police are appealing for witnesses to the axe attack in Heywood reported on Rochdale Online early this morning.

A 39-year-old man was attacked by masked men inside a takeaway on Manchester Street shortly after 6pm on Sunday 24 November 2013.

The two masked men walked inside the premises and attacked the victim with what is believed to be an axe and a baseball bat.

His assailants ran out of the take away along Manchester Street towards Hardfield Street.

The man was taken to hospital for treatment to wounds to his lower body. His condition is described as stable.

The two offenders are described as wearing dark clothing with their faces covered with balaclavas and wearing hoods.

Detective Inspector Melani Linton from Rochdale division said “We have a team of detectives working to establish the circumstances surrounding this attack.

"We believe this was an isolated incident where the victim appears to have been specifically targeted and are appealing for anyone who was in the Manchester Street area of Heywood around this time to get in touch.

“Enquiries are ongoing to determine the motive behind this incident and I would like to try to reassure the local community that there is no wider risk to public.

“I welcome contact from anyone who can provide information that will help establish the identities the man's attackers."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/83868/man-has-multiple-injuries-following-axe-attack-in-heywood