Parents of Garstang gang attack victim praise passers-by who came to their son's aid
The parents of a 14-year-old boy attacked by a gang of youths have thanked two men who intervened and the doctors and nurses who cared for him.
The teenager was attacked by a gang of around 10 youths near the junction of Badgers Wood and Lydiate Lane, Garstang, on Wednesday May 20 as he rode his bike.
Today the boy's parents Lara and Daniel Clark said it was "a frenzied attack that can't be allowed to happen to anyone again."
The couple posted on Mrs Clark's Facebook account that her son, who we have agreed not to name, was rushed to Royal Preston Hospital and "after five horrendously long hours, a CT brain scan revealed (our son) had been incredibly lucky.
"(Our son's) head had been kicked and jumped on and he had severe concussion.
"He has bruises to most of his body, face and head. Thankfully his vision has recovered and the fracture to his jaw will heal without surgery.
"He is however still struggling to breathe through his injured nose."
The couple added: "We cannot thank enough the two men aged 18-20 that told the boys to stop and pulled (our son) to safety, they probably saved his life.
"We would like them to contact the police so that we can thank them.
"Thank you to all our family & friends who have been so supportive over the last few days and who are as equally incensed by this cowardly assault as we are.
"Also a big thanks to the fantastic doctors and nurses at RPH who were absolutely incredible."
Police have arrested five suspects.
The investigation is ongoing. Police urge anyone with information to respond to their earlier appeal (call 101, use online services or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111).
Police are continuing to patrol the Brock Side, Catterall and Garstang areas to maintain public safety, provide reassurance and ensure that the suspects do not breach bail conditions.
Mr and Mrs Clark added: "We’d like to encourage the parents of all the remaining boys and girls who were either involved or witnessed the attack, to please do the right thing and persuade their children to come forward.
"This was a frenzied attack that can’t be allowed to happen to anyone again!"