POLICE are appealing for help in tracing a gang of youths who carried out a violent, unprovoked attack on a 14-year-old boy.

The incident happened at about 5.50pm on Monday, January 12. The victim had just left the Selwyn Jones Sports Centre and was walking towards Ashton Road, Newton-le-Willows, on his way to meet his mum when he was confronted by a gang of nine youths, all believed to be aged about18.

The gang demanded that he hand over money and cigarettes, but when the youngster said he didn't have either, one shouted "punch him Daz."

One of the gang then grabbed the boy's hand, bent his fingers right back and punched him in the face as another youth grabbed him round the neck.

The vicious attack only ended when the gang spotted an approaching car and ran off.

Soon afterwards the boy's mother appeared and she took him straight into Warrington Hospital for treatment.

The gang members are all believed to be about 18 years and between 5ft 10in and 6ft tall. Some wore woollen hats and others baseball caps.

ANYONE who can help police can contact DC Heather Dale at St Helens police station on 0151 777 6064, or Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111.

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