A VAN driver who was attacked while on his way to work in Longford needed emergency surgery after suffering injuries all over his body.

The 59-year-old victim, who has asked to remain anonymous, was driving to work on Saturday, February 18, between 10.15am and 10.45am when he was flagged down by two men on Armour Avenue close to the junction with Densham Avenue.

As he pulled over to help the two men, he was not prepared for the violence which was about to unfold.

One of the men opened the van door and punched the driver to the face.

He then started to kick the van before slamming the door on the victim's hand.

He said: "It was a sustained attack over what felt like four minutes.

"I wanted to drive away but I couldn't.

"I had just pulled over to help."

The victim was able to break free from the attack and drive away from the scene.

As a result of the assault the victim needed surgery on his wrist and thumb.

He added: "I also sustained a golf ball sized lump on my face and could not open my eye properly for days.

"Not to mention the broken ribs which resulted in me having to have the surgery awake because it was too dangerous to put me to sleep.

"I work as a handyman and it has stopped me from earning for my family.

"This shows that you never know what is going to happen."

A 30-year-old man has since been arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm following the assault.

He was taken into custody to be questioned but he has been bailed pending further enquiries.

Anyone with information can call Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident 582 of February 18 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.