Police praise public who helped suspected acid attack victim in Southport

Police say people in Southport who rushed to help a man after a suspected acid attack there - may have helped save him from more severe injuries

Emergency services were called to Hawkshead Street at around 9.35pm to a report four people had assaulted a 49-year-old man by punching and kicking him before throwing an unknown substance in his face.

The youths, described as three males and a female aged 17-19, then left on foot taking his mobile phone and wallet.

Police attended and administered first aid to the victim before he was taken to hospital to be treated for burns to his face and eyes. His condition is described as stable.

An investigation into the incident has been launched and officers are conducting forensics and house to house enquiries. CCTV opportunities are also being explored.

Tests will be carried out on the substance thrown at the victim.

Detective Inspector Simon Vaughan said: "This was a shocking and completely unprovoked attack on a man who was simply walking home.

"Violent robberies such as this will not be tolerated by Merseyside Police and I am sure the local community will agree this is completely unacceptable."

"I would like to reassure the community that incidents of this nature are extremely rare and patrols in the area have been increased. We are determined to find the people responsible for this and would appeal to anyone with information to call us."