Schoolgirl left needing surgery after being attacked by gang in park

A schoolgirl was left needing surgery after being attacked with a weapon by a gang of thugs.

Police sped to Norris Green Park in Liverpool last night following reports of a 14-year-old girl attacked over a row with a group of males.

The teenager had made off with friends into the park and was later rushed to hospital by family members.  

The youngster suffered injuries to her buttocks and had to undergo 'non life-threatening' surgery for her injuries.

Detectives have launched a probe into the assault and are making forensic and CCTV enquiries in the local area.

They have also urged anyone with information to come forward as they hunt for the assailants responsible for the attack on the teenage girl. 

Detective Inspector Steve Street said: 'This serious assault on a teenage girl which is wholly unacceptable, and she is currently in hospital to receive surgery which is thankfully not life threatening.

'We are in the early stages of the investigation to establish the circumstances leading up to the incident, where we believe several young males were present when the assault took place.

'I would appeal to anyone who was in the park from 7pm onwards and saw or heard the altercation with the group of males and the victim being assaulted to please contact us.

'Likewise I also urge people in the area to check your CCTV and dashcam footage to see if it has captured any footage, no matter how small, as any information may help with the investigation.'

Detective Inspector Street added: 'Reducing knife crime is a priority all year round in Merseyside. We are committed to proactively using stop and search powers, carrying out open land searches, warrants and education, working alongside partners to remove weapons from the streets.

'While we are making positive progress, we understand the devastating consequences of carrying a weapon and are relentless in our approach to targeting and pursuing criminals.

'The use of any weapons is reckless and will not be tolerated, and can have tragic consequences, not only for the victim and their family but also for the offenders involved.

'I would urge people to educate themselves and speak to their children and family members about the dangers of knife crime.

'There is no place for knives in our communities. I would urge anyone with information to get in touch or call Crimestoppers anonymously so we can act on community intelligence.'

Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has information that could help police, have been urged to message @MerPolCC or @CrimestoppersUK.

For those who wish to remain anonymous, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. quoting reference 24000900426.