A teenage boy was seriously injured after being attacked by a mob of youths during a vicious sectarian attack in Derry today.
The victim, a 15-year-old Catholic, suffered facial and head wounds when a nine-strong gang pounced on him as he made his way to a friend's house.
Police believe boys and girls around the same age took part in the attack in the Church Brae area of the city.
It is understood the teenager was taken to the Altnagelvin Hospital after the early morning beating where he was today in a stable condition.
A spokesman said the assault was so severe some of the culprits would be splattered with blood.
He added: "He (the victim) was struck on the face by a bottle and as he lay on the ground he was repeatedly kicked.
"One of the assailants was seen stamping and kicking his head."
The attackers then escaped in the direction of Irish Street. Police have urged any witnesses to contact detectives at Waterside.
PA
