A DISABLED man who was attacked by a gang of youths today pleaded: "Stop bullying me."

Brian Peel, aged 34, had been drinking with friends at Highfield Working Men's Club in Ratcliffe Street, Darwen, when he was set upon by seven teenagers.

As he walked along Nancy Street, they knocked off his glasses and slapped his face.

Mr Peel believes he was picked on because he is registered blind and suffers from a hearing impairment.

He said it was not the first time he had been targeted by a group of young people.

"I am scared to go out because I feel I am being bullied," said Mr Peel. "Luckily, someone came along and picked my glasses up because I can't see much without them.

"I can't hear if people are walking behind me. It has happened several times over the last few years and I am sick of being picked on. I want them to stop bullying me. I don't think it is fair that a disabled person should be stopped from going to their local pub or club because of a gang of youngsters."

Mr Peel reported the incident to the police.

Insp Andrea Banbury said the assault allegation was being investigated. She also said a previous incident of theft and assault had been reported in February.

His mother Lilian said: "The police said they would look into it.

"It would be better if there was someone on patrol. I am frightened of what will happen next. They seem to pick on him because he is disabled."