Boy suffered head injuries in park attack in Thatto Heath

The targeted attack happened back in July but police - who have made a series of arrests over the incident - this week issued a public appeal for information.

The victim was confronted by at least five males and assaulted on the field at the top of Govett Road in Thatto Heath at about 6.55pm on Sunday, July 21.

This week police issued grainy CCTV images of three males and a female who may have information.

Police want to speak to this boy (Image: Merseyside Police)

Police want to hear from people who may know who the girl is (Image: Merseyside Police)

Can you help police identify this boy (Image: Merseyside Police)

Do you know who this is? (Image: Merseyside Police)

Two arrests so far

Detectives say extensive enquiries are ongoing, and at this stage two boys have been arrested in connection with this incident and are on conditional bail.

They are:

• A 15-year-old boy from St Helens, arrested on suspicion of Section 47 assault and Section 4 public order offence
• A 16-year-old boy from Thatto Heath, arrested on suspicion of Section 47 assault and Section 4 public order offence

Detective Constable Wallace said: “This appears to have been a pre-planned assault, which resulted in hospital treatment and will have been a frightening experience.

"Thankfully the victim’s injuries were not even more serious, and we are supporting the victim and his family as enquiries continue.

“The people pictured may have information to assist this investigation, so I would ask them or anyone who know them to come forward as soon as possible.

“We are determined to find those responsible for this cowardly attack and put them before the courts.

"If you were in the park at the time, or passing by and may have seen or captured the incidents or a group acting suspiciously, please come forward as any detail could be vital.”

Contact @MerPolCC, 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 with reference 24000636614.