A MACHETE attack which left a man seriously injured could have been sparked by a row between two gangs, detectives have revealed.

A 19-year-old Asian man was stabbed in the head and chest outside Nelson Methodist Church, Hibson Road.

The man, from Nelson, was taken to Burnley General Hospital after the incident around 11pm on Saturday.

On Sunday he had surgery for his injuries. Last night he was said to be in a stable condition, police said.

Detective Superintendent Mick Gradwell, who is leading the inquiry, said officers were still waiting to question the victim about the incident and re-appealed for people with information to come forward.

He said: "There were two wounds caused by a machete in what was a particularly violent attack between two gangs of youths.

"The man has been sedated since the operation and we are at the hospital waiting to speak to him as soon as possible.

"We understand quite a number of people observed the incident and would ask anybody with information to contact the police."

Forensic tests have been carried out at the scene.

Det Supt Gradwell added: "We have searched the area fully and no weapon was found. We are looking for something like a machete or an axe."

Anybody with information should contact police on 01282 425001.

l Three Asian men aged 25, 21 and 20, all from Nelson, were arrested in connection with the incident and released on bail pending further inquiries.