Gang attacks schoolboys with hammer at Wigan park

The incident took place at Laithwaite Park in Wigan shortly before 5pm on Saturday, August 22.

The two boys, both 15, were waiting for friends near the football pitches when a gang of four males approached them.

One of them, who was wearing a mask, demanded they hand over money and mobile phones, and brandished a hammer from his waistband when they refused.

One of the boy's mothers told Wigan Today: "He's whacked [my son] in the abdomen, so then he gave him the phone. They then went to the other lad and started jumping on his head and hitting him.

"They got the other lad's phone as well, and then they ran away to the nearest person, who took them to the police station.

"An ambulance came to the police station, and because he had an abdomen injury he had to go be checked at hospital in case they'd damaged his kidneys or liver. Luckily there's nothing damaged inside, which is a relief.

She added: "[My son] is okay, he's just shook up, and doesn't want to go out. It was only his first time out since lockdown as well.

"I just don't understand why lads would want to go out with a hammer."

The victims said their attackers were all wearing black or dark tracksuits, and are thought to be between 15 and 17 years old.

The parents of both boys are now appealing for anyone who has information about the attackers to contact the police.

Greater Manchester Police have been contacted for further information.

Anyone with information should call police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.