Assault of 15-year-old boy in Falinge Park

Date published: 31/10/2006

Police in Rochdale have issued a photograph of the injuries suffered by a 15-year-old boy who was assaulted in a park by a large group of youths.

At approximately 1.30am on Saturday, 28 October 2006, Scott Haywood was stood with friends next to the bandstand in Falinge Park, Heights Lane, Falinge.

They were then approached by a group of around 20 male youths. As the group reached him, they attacked Scott, punching him in the face and kicking him.

He then fell to the ground and was repeatedly stamped on.

He eventually picked himself up and was taken to Rochdale Infirmary suffering from a suspected fractured skull.

Scott, who is from Spotland area of Rochdale, was able to give descriptions of two of his attackers. One is described as of mixed race, aged around 17, 5ft 11in tall with short, dark hair.

The other offender is described as white, aged between 16 and 17, with a pale freckled face, a chubby build, short, brown hair and was wearing a black jacket.

Police are now appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident, or was in the park around the time of the assault, to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police in Rochdale on 0161 856 4646 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

-----------------------------------------------

UPDATE 03/11/06

Police investigating the assault have arrested a boy in connection with the incident.

A 16-year-old boy from Rochdale was arrested on suspicion of assault and is currently being interviewed by officers.

Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses.