TWO men have suffered life-changing injuries after a stolen car deliberately driven into group of men ­— one of which was then attacked.

Police are now appealing for witnesses to the horrific incident which took place in the early hours.

Two men, aged 22 and 24, are being treated in hospital for serious injuries, which are not believed to be life threatening.

Officers were at around 2.45am to Liverpool Road, close to the junction with Barton Road in Salford.

Police say four men were pushing a Land Rover Freelander along Liverpool Road when a stolen Vauxhall Vectra deliberately drove into them.

Five men ­— one carrying a weapon ­— got out of the Vectra before assaulting one of the men pushing the Freelander.

The offenders then set the stolen car on fire and flee the scene.

Road closures remain in place as enquiries continue to be carried out this morning.

Detective Superintendent Neil Jones, of Greater Manchester Police, said: "This is a shocking incident which has left two men with life changing injuries; one after being assaulted and the other after being hit by a stolen car.

"Although it happened in the early hours of the morning, it did take place on a busy road so we believe there may be a number of witnesses who potentially hold information about the incident or the moments leading up to it.

"I would like to appeal to these people to please come forward and tell us what they know. It may seem like only the smallest detail but it could be important information that we need for our investigation.

"If you have any information that you believe can assist us, then I would urge you to please come forward.”

Anybody with information should contact police on 0161 856 5049/0161 856 5290, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.