DETECTIVES today renewed their appeal for two men who helped the victim of a serious town centre assault to come forward.

Officers at Darwen are hoping their plea will provide them with more information to catch the thugs who left a late-night reveller with a broken jaw and cheekbone.

Michael Johnson, 33, of Bentham Close, Mill Hill, was on his way home after a night at the Privilege Nightclub, at the Circus, in Darwen, when he was punched to the ground and kicked in the head by the gang.

Police are now eager to trace the two men who helped Mr Johnson after they were called over by his girlfriend.

Detective Sergeant Ian Critchley from Darwen CID said: "We are following up one line of inquiry since our last appeal but we would still like the other man to come forward.

"There were about 20 or 30 people around at the time and we have only spoken to a couple them so it is essential we speak to this man."

Anyone with information should telephone 01254 353842 or Crimestoppers free on 0800 555 111.

Crimestoppers may offer a reward of up to £15,000 for information leading to an arrest and conviction in major cases.