Teenager stabbed in fight

A TEENAGER WAS in hospital today after being stabbed during an organised gang fight involving up to 30 youngsters from Shrewsbury and Telford.

The youth, believed to be in his late teens and from Shrewsbury, suffered serious puncture wounds to his leg and side after rival gangs clashed near the Castle Walk footbridge.

Four people from Telford were arrested and were being quizzed by detectives at Shrewsbury Police Station today.

It is understood a gang travelled from Telford to Shrewsbury for the pre-arranged fight, which happened at about 6.20pm yesterday.

The stabbed youth was given emergency treatment by paramedics at the scene before being airlifted to Selly Oak Hospital. He was today understood to be in a stable condition.

Another teenage boy also suffered bruising and swelling to his right eye and sore ribs, but was not taken to hospital.

Eye witnesses said there were about 30 youngsters in the area at the time of the incident, including many who were crying, as police arrived.

A police dog unit also attended.

One resident, who did not want to be named, said the fight broke out in the park area and he saw paramedics taking a stretcher down to the victim in the overgrown area of the park.

Detective Sergeant Mark Hill, from West Mercia Police, today said: "Four youths in their mid to late teens were arrested shortly after police arrived following a search of the area.

They were arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. They remain in police custody today.

"The scene remains cordoned off for forensic examination. Further searches of the area for potential evidence are due to take place today. The investigation is ongoing and remains at an early stage at this time."

John Hawker, a spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service, said crews were called to a "serious" incident near Castle Walk footbridge and Dorset Road.

He confirmed a man, believed to be in his late teens, was given emergency treatment before being airlifted to hospital.

Witnesses are asked to call on 0300 333 3000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

By Kirsty Smallman and Russell Roberts