Darwen screwdriver attacker is caught on CCTV (From Blackburn Citizen)

Darwen screwdriver attacker is caught on CCTV

9:28am Wednesday 30th January 2013 in News By Vanessa Cornall, Crime reporter

CCTV Police want to talk to this man

THIS is the man that police are searching for after a charity worker was stabbed 14 times with a screwdriver in Darwen.

The 42-year-old man was subjected to the ‘unprovoked and frenzied’ attack after refusing to hand over his belongings to a thief, as he walked along Blackburn Road.

The would-be thief began stabbing the man who works at Reto charity shop, also in Blackburn Road, in the head arms and body.

After falling into the road the victim ran for help at the Savoy petrol station, but was followed by his attacker.

Detectives have now released a picture of the man they believe to be responsible.

DI Jill Johnson, who is leading the investigation, said: “This was a violent, frenzied and nasty attack on a man simply walking down the street.

“I urge anyone who recognises this man to come forward and contact police.

“Luckily, this victim did not suffer life changing injuries but that easily could have been very different. I also appeal for anyone who witnessed the attack to come forward as they may hold vital evidence.”

The victim was left with 14 stab wounds, the worse of which was in the back of the head.

He was treated at the Royal Blackburn Hospital and released on Monday.

The attacker is described as white, 5ft 11ins tall, about 35-years-old with short dark hair.

Anyone with information should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 55 111.