A MUSICIAN and recording studio owner is recovering after he sustained 'serious head injuries' while travelling on a train.

Keiron Melling, who runs Hilltown Studios in Colne and is also the drummer with the indie band The Fall, had his head kicked and stamped on by two men while onboard a Blackburn bound train travelling from Manchester.

Followers of the iconic band, led by legendary lyricist and singer Mark E Smith, have been sending goodwill messages to Mr Melling on fan forums.

It is believed he is now recovering at home following the incident on Monday, March 27..

Detectives have released images of two men they wish to speak to following the attack on the Northern train service.

A British Transport Police spokesman, said: "Just after 9.30pm officers from BTP were called to Smithy Bridge station following reports of an assault.

"Police attended alongside paramedics and treated a man for serious head injuries. He was then taken to hospital for further assessment.

"From speaking with witnesses and viewing available CCTV, it is believed that the victim, a 34-year-old man, was assaulted by two men on board the service.

"The assault happened on board the 9.01pm Northern service from Manchester Victoria to Blackburn.

"At this stage, no arrests have been made."

Investigating officer DS Stephen Kite, said: "This was a horrific assault and the victim needed treatment in hospital for a nasty head injury.

"Our investigation is in its early stages and at present we are very keen to understand the circumstances which led to this man being injured.

"If you were on the train and saw the assault then please make contact with us as soon as possible. Any information, no matter how small, could help us piece things together.

"The behaviour of the two suspects who fled the area makes me believe they are not residents of Smithy Bridge.

"They seemed lost and confused so it is likely they intended to stay on the train until a later destination. Therefore, we would also like to appeal to people from Blackburn and other areas who may know who these men are.

"To assist officers with their enquiries, we are releasing CCTV images of two men who officers believe may be able to assist enquiries."

DS Kite added: “If you recognise these two men or have any information which may help our enquiries then I would urge you to contact us at soon as possible. Your information could be vitally important in our investigation.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact BTP by sending a text to 61016 or call 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference 572 of 27/03/2017.