A HITCH-hiker was hit with a piece of wood while trying to catch a lift at Burton Services.

The incident occurred at 1.20pm on Valentine's Day on the northbound carriageway of the exit slip road on the M6 near Kendal.

Police said a car stopped and a man got out and hit the hiker with a piece of wood.

The victim was taken to Westmorland General Hospital, Kendal, for bruises and swelling to his arm and his leg.

Officers are appealing for witnesses. Anyone with information contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.