Boy, 12, hospitalised with ‘significant burns’ after two older men set fire to his t-shirt in ‘horrific’ Blackpool assault

The 12-year-old victim was with a friend in Bancroft Park, off Seasiders Way, when he was approached by two older men.

The two men asked the boy if he wanted to see a magic trick before setting his t-shirt on fire with a cigarette lighter.

The boy suffered significant burns to his torso and was taken to hospital by a passer-by who stopped to help.

Police said the assault occurred between 8pm and 9pm on Tuesday (November 1).

Det Insp Kirsty Wyatt, of Blackpool CID, said: “This was a horrific assault on a young boy and he has suffered some really significant burn injuries which will need on-going hospital treatment.

“I would appeal to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area at around the time of the attack to come forward and speak to us.

“We will have extra patrols in the area over the coming days and I would urge anyone with information or concerns to speak to an officer.”

The first suspect is described as tall, wearing a black hoodie with the hood pulled up, a black mask, black trousers with pockets on the legs and black leather gloves.

The second offender is described as smaller, also wearing a black hoodie with the hood up, black joggers, fingerless gloves He covered his face with his hand.

Anyone with information should call 101, quoting log number 1344 of November 1.

Independent charity Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.