DETECTIVES hunting the vicious maniac who attacked a pub landlord with a Samurai type sword are appealing for information about the home-crafted weapon.

Ernie Gradwell, the landlord of the Shepherd's Arms, on Wellington Road, Ince, was left fighting for his life after the crazed attack in the early hours of Sunday, September 7.

Detective Inspector John Tyrer, from Leigh CID, hopes someone may recognised the distinctive three-foot long sword, above, which could have been made in a workshop, college or school, in the Leigh area.

He said: "I would say the sword was home-made. The cutting edge is made of a soft metal unlike an authentic Samurai weapon. From its appearance I would say it is more ornamental, for display purposes." And he added that from the injuries suffered by Mr Gradwell the sword was used with great force by the assailant.

After the attack Mr Gradwell managed to stagger 100 yards from the pub in a bid to raise the alarm despite sustaining horrific skull injuries. Detectives, who have set up an incident room in Leigh, believe the landlord could have disturbed a burglary at the pub. The pub owners Enterprise Inns have offered a £3,000 reward for information about the attack.

Mr Gradwell is helping detectives with their enquiries from his hospital bed at Wigan Royal Infirmary. He has confirmed that the sword was not his own. Anyone with information about the attack or the sword should contact the Leigh incident room on 0161 856 7284.

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