Gang attack boat owner

One of the attackers may have been wounded by a sword

The owner of a canal boat has been attacked by a group of people in Northampton.

The 65-year-old man and his wife, who live on their boat, were approached beneath Upton Way on Saturday afternoon by four men and two women.

They wanted a lock on the Grand Union Canal to be opened to allow it to fill so they would be able to swim in it.

When the boat owner refused, he was attacked and items were stolen from the boat.

The owner was treated in Northampton General Hospital for head, facial and back injuries.

Northamptonshire Police say one of the attackers may have suffered a chest wound after the victim defended himself with an ornamental sword.

They are appealing for anyone with any information to get in touch.