A gang of Asians carrying knives, cricket bats and an axe, viciously attacked two anglers at a Birmingham Park Lake.

The incident, at Ward End Park Lake, left the two unnamed men needing hospital treatment.

The assault happened on Friday afternoon, and one of the anglers, a 34-year-old from Bromford, was struck on the head with the axe.

The second, a 28-year-old from Alum Rock, was treated for stab wounds to his arm, shoulders and chest. The police arrived only after the gang of 15-20 year olds had fled the scene. Both anglers were rushed to nearby Heartlands Hospital.

The police called it ‘a brutal attack that could have resulted in a fatality’ and are appealing for witnesses. Anyone with information should call them on 0121 322 6080.