Boys assaulted in park attack

BROKEN ARM AND SPLIT HEAD AMONG INJURIES

The mother of two teenage boys has told how they were the victims of a broaddaylight attack by a gang of youths in a city centre park.

The boys, from Boldon Colliery, were attacked in Sunderland’s Mowbray Park – with one needing seven staples in his head and the other breaking his arm.

The mum of one of the boys, who asked not to be named in fear of retaliation from the “violent” youths, has spoken of the terrifying moment she was told her son had been attacked.

Her 13-year-old was enjoying the warmer weather in the park with a friend on Friday when they were approached by three older boys.

The mum said the three boys asked the youngsters to fight. When the pair asked them to leave they responded with violence.

She says her son’s friend was then pushed over the bandstand railings and he broke his arm in the fall.

Her son was choked and punched by one of the boys until he fell unconscious. The teenager then fell back and split his head open – causing a wound which needed seven staples.

Police are investigating the incident but there have been no arrests.

The mother added: “A lady saw what happened and went to their rescue. I didn’t know who she was but I’m so grateful for what she did. She called an ambulance and stayed with my son.”

A spokesman for Northumbria Police said: “Anyone who saw what happened, should call police on 101 quoting log 574 22/02/19.”