Machete gang pounces outside pub

TWO men are in hospital after they were attacked with machetes as they waited outside a Failsworth pub.

The pair, who were accompanied by another friend, were minding their own business outside the Mare and Foal pub on Ashton Road West when two cars pulled up at around 2am on Saturday.

A gang of men armed with machetes and an iron bar jumped out of the vehicles and launched an unprovoked attack on the 24-year-old victims.

One of them suffered a large cut to his head and leg. Another suffered a cut to his arm and head. Both remain in a serious condition at the Royal Oldham Hospital. Their friend was struck with an iron bar. His injuries were not serious and he was discharged from hospital.

Police are now appealing for witnesses. The offenders are believed to have been travelling in a silver Vauxhall Astra or Ford Focus. Det Con Kate Dawson, of Oldham CID, said: “This was a horrific attack on a group of men who were going about their business.

“It is vital we catch the men who carried out this assault.”

Anyone with any information should call Oldham CID on 0161-856 8951 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.