A HOLIDAYMAKER has been left fighting for his life after being punched in an row outside a Blackpool pub and hit by a car.

Phillip Langton, 25, was punched in the head following an argument with two younger men as he left the New Road Inn pub on Talbot Road at around 8pm, on Saturday, July 31.

It is not known whether the victim, who was visiting the resort from Manchester, then stumbled or was deliberately pushed into the path of an oncoming car. He was taken to the Royal Preston Hospital where his condition was yesterday described as critical.

Police in the resort are now hoping to trace a man seen walking on the opposite side of the street talking on his mobile phone shortly before the incident.

They have described him as white, in his late teens to early 20s, around 5ft 10ins tall and of slim build.

A police spokesman said: "The witness may have crucial information to assist the investigation."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Blackpool police on 01253 293933 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.