Three masked intruders threw acid over a man today in what police believe was a targeted attack.

The victim, a 50-year-old man, was attacked in an upstairs bedroom.

He was left with serious leg injuries, and burns from the ‘acid-like substance’ which had been thrown over his upper body.

He was taken to hospital for treatment and is currently in a serious but stable condition.

Police are now appealing for witnesses to the attack, which happened at in Rayleigh Street, East Bowling, at around 2am.

Detective Chief Inspector Nick Wallen, of the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team, said: “This is a particularly serious incident in which a man has been assaulted and suffered burns after being attacked with a dangerous chemical.

“We do believe this was very much a targeted incident and not a random attack and I am appealing to anyone who has any information to contact us as it is important we arrest those responsible as quickly as possible.

“Anyone who saw suspicious behaviour outside the property on Raleigh Street or who has information is asked to contact the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team on 101 anonymously CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.

“I can promise anyone who contacts us that information will be treated in confidence.”