A MAN was left lying unconscious on the street with his jaw broken in two places after being robbed.

The early morning attack has triggered a police appeal for witnesses in a bid to catch the culprits.

The 34-year-old, who lives in Manchester, had been out in Lancaster with friends on Friday night.

At around 2am on Saturday, he was waiting at the junction of Bowerham Road and Dale Street when he was set upon by a group of youths.

Police believe they may have come from the grounds of Bowerham Road School.

The victim sustained a broken jaw in two places and bruising, with several teeth also knocked out during the attack.

His mobile phone was stolen, along with some cash.

Police say he was immediately taken to Royal Lancaster Infirmary after being found unconscious.

There were up to five offenders involved, all male, wearing baseball caps and aged about 16 to 20.

Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Sergeant Paul Greenhalgh of Lancaster CID on 01524-596712.