Youth fighting for life after attack in park

The 17-year-old boy remained in hospital yesterday after the incident in Myrtle Park in Bingley, near Bradford.

He underwent emergency surgery after suffering bleeding on the brain following the assault, which happened on Tuesday evening.

It is understood the teenager travelled home with a friend after the incident but was later taken to Bradford Royal Infirmary before being transferred to Leeds General Infirmary.

The boy, who is thought to be from the Allerton area of Bradford, remained in hospital yesterday where his condition was described as being "stable".

Detective Superintendent Chris Thompson, of West Yorkshire Police's Homicide and Major Enquiry Team, said: "He was subjected to a violent assault which left him fighting for his life with serious head injuries."

Police are appealing to students from Bingley Grammar School who were in the park at the time to contact them if they have any information.

Det Supt Thompson said: "We know that young people from Bingley Grammar School were present in the park at this time celebrating their GCSE results.

"I would appeal to this group of people, anyone who may have witnessed the incident or anyone who has any information, to contact the incident room. It is vital that we piece together the events leading to this incident."

The victim is not believed to attend Bingley Grammar School.

A police cordon was set up in the bottom meadow of the popular park as scenes of crimes officers searched the area.

Local councillors have expressed shock and concern following the incident.

Bingley Councillor John Pennington said: "Isn't it a sad outcome when people should have been celebrating and enjoying themselves. I would urge anyone with information to contact the police.

"There have been very occasional issues of anti-social behaviour in Myrtle Park, particularly drinking but the police now have powers to confiscate the drinks."

The park, which has hosted the Bingley Show for the past 10 years, is popular with visitors of all ages.

Coun Pennington said: "The park is used by so many different types of people for all sorts of different things. There is a wonderful skateboard area and then you have crown green bowls. It is a beautiful setting."

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact West Yorkshire Police on 0845 6060606.

A 16-year-old boy has been charged with assault and resisting arrest.