A 15-YEAR-OLD Rossendale schoolboy was fighting for his life today following an alleged attack in the Haslingden area.

Detectives investigating the incident think the youngster, who is believed to be from Haslingden, was assaulted at around 2pm on Bank Holiday Monday.

Police believe a fight broke out as a result of a long-running feud between the youngster and another teenager.

He then was able to make his way home, where he collapsed prompting family members to alert paramedics.

Detective Inspector Steve Pemberton said: "We were contacted by the family sometime after the boy collapsed at his home.

"We are making extensive inquiries into what happened that afternoon. All avenues are being looked at and we have already interviewed several people about the incident. At this moment in time we haven't arrested anybody."

He added: "It is not yet known whether the assault is the cause of his condition and we are keeping an open mind."

The youngster was taken to Fairfield Hospital in Bury with serious injuries before being transferred to Pendlebury Children's Hospital in Manchester where he was today critical in intensive care. His condition was described as poorly.

Anybody with information is asked to contact police on 01282 425001 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.