Man left in 'pool of blood' after 'creepy clown' attack at cash machine
Police are hunting a "creepy clown" after a man was left in a pool of blood in a terrifying attack.
Simon Chinery, 28, said the attack has "ruined my life" after suffering severe injuries to his right hand when confronted at a cash machine by a clown wielding a 10in knife.
He grabbed at the knife to defend himself but the blade cut through his hand, he said.
The father-of-one, from Blackburn, Lancashire, then punched the clown, who ran off.
Mr Chinery told the Lancashire Telegraph: "It was like something out of a horror movie. His eyes were piercing black. There was blood everywhere."
The clown was said to have a green curly wig with black eye make-up, a red nose and painted red beard and was wearing green trousers, a white fitted top, latex gloves and black boots.
Mr Chinery was taken to hospital and has been told his hand may have long lasting damage and he will need reconstructive surgery.
Mr Chinery, who is a joiner, said he is now unable to work.
He added: "This attack has ruined my life. I am disabled from this and can't return to my trade."
A spokesman for Lancashire Police said: "We were called at 3pm yesterday to reports a 28-year-old man sustained knife injuries to his hand during an incident in Blackburn on October 9.
"Officers have spoken to the victim, who said he was approached at around 8.45pm on Haslingden Road by someone holding a knife.
"The victim attempted to grab the knife which resulted in injuries to three of his fingers.
"He has described the assailant as male and wearing a clown costume.
"The offender made off from the scene and the victim sought hospital treatment at Blackburn before being transferred to Preston.
"Our inquiries are ongoing."