A TEENAGE boy was treated in hospital for facial injuries after being viciously attacked by a gang of up to 20 youths.

Philip Vyas (16) had six stitches inserted into a wound under his eye after the attack which happened in Lowercroft Road, Bury, between 9.30pm and 9.45pm last Friday (1).

And the boy's angry father says that if a motorist had not intervened, then his son's injuries could have been much worse.

Father Mr Jet Vyas said: "A chap pulled up in his car and saw what was happening and the kids ran away.

"He saw Philip lying on the pavement and took him home. He told my son he lived in Wigan. I would like to thank him.

"Philip was walking home from Tottington when he was jumped by between 15 and 20 youths. They pinned him down and punched him repeatedly. He was hit in the face, knees and ribs."

After his son was dropped off at his home on the Seddons Farm Estate, Mr Vyas (48) took him to hospital where he was treated for his injuries.

Mr Vyas added: "I wonder if the parents of those gang members know if their sons were involved in something like this.

"These lads were obviously looking for a fight. Philip was in the wrong place at the wrong time."

Police investigations into the assault are continuing. Anyone with information is asked to ring police on 872 5050 or freephone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.