THE distinctly-dressed leader of a brick-wielding gang of thugs is being hunted by police.

The thug - who had a plaster cast on his arm - and his four accomplices were responsible for a brutal attack on a man in the Crown Street car park in Bolton town centre at the weekend.

The thugs also attacked four passers-by who came to the man's aid.

Two men, who have not been identified, needed hospital treatment from the injuries they received in the attack.

Detectives say the men were seen attacking a man in the car park shortly after 2am on Saturday. A man walking past with his girlfriend went to his aid.

The thugs, in their late teens, then turned on him, pelting him with bricks. He fled suffering head and facial injuries.

Three other passers-by also intervened and were set on by the gang.

Police said it was fortunate no one was seriously hurt.

They want to speak to anyone who saw the attack or who may have seen the five thugs.

Detectives have released a description of the man they believe was the ringleader.

He was white, 5ft 8-10ins tall, with short dark hair and wearing a distinctive blue jumper with a Henri Lloyd logo on the front.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Bolton Central CID, tel: 0161 872 5050.

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