A PENSIONER is battling for his life after receiving a brain injury when a gang of youths set upon him early today.

The 68-year-old man was walking along Water Street, Radcliffe, Bury, when the attack took place.

As he walked through the group of youths, the thugs suddenly hit out at their victim, punching him about the head.

He fell to the floor suffering internal bleeding to his brain and cuts to his mouth and head.

The elderly man was rushed to the Bury General Hospital where he is said to be in serious but stable condition.

Today detectives put out an appeal for witnesses to the attack between 12.30am and 12.49am today to contact Whitefield CID on 0161 856 8240 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.