Three witnesses could hold key information about an unprovoked attack on a 24-year-old man who was left with smashed ribs and a punctured lung.

The man is recovering in Airedale Hospital, Steeton, after he was set upon by a gang of youths on Sunday at 7.30pm.

They pounced near Mr Shine's car wash in the Stockbridge area of Keighley and the three witnesses are thought to have seen something of the attack.

Two were in a white Vauxhall Astra estate and the other was the driver of a blue Peugeot 205 with yellow wing mirrors and 'max power' inscribed on its mudguards.

Detective Inspector Trevor Gasson, of Keighley police, says: "We don't believe these people are part of the assault but they might have crucial information from a witness perspective."

He adds: "I have interviewed the victim in hospital and it appears he was completely innocent, just walking along the road when he was set upon.

"It was a nasty attack and totally unprovoked. We know of no reason why it should have happened.

"We need information about this gang, especially the two who led the attack."

One of the gang members was described as a 20 year-old Asian male of slim build, about 5ft 5ins to 5ft 6ins tall, with short hair at the sides but longer on top.

He was clean shaven and wearing a white jacket and dark trousers.

The second youth was a 5ft tall Asian male with a very thin moustache, aged between 18 to 20 years and of slim build.

He had short brown hair and was wearing a light blue shellsuit or tracksuit top and dark blue jeans which were loose fitting.

Anyone with information should call Keighley CID on 01535 617085 or the police helpdesk on 01535 617039.