Parents' bedside vigil for boy

The parents of an eight-year-old Shropshire boy fighting for his life after being shot in the head with an air gun are keeping a bedside vigil as he recovers from his ordeal.

David Whalley, of Cheswardine, near Market Drayton, was today described as being in a "serious but stable" condition after being shot on Monday evening.

His family were today too upset to talk about the shocking incident, but are keeping a bedside vigil at the hospital and indicated the youngster is still facing a long road to recovery.

They described the incident as a "tragic accident" which had come as a big shock to the family.

David, believed to be a pupil at Hinstock Primary School, was rushed to hospital on Monday evening after suffering the head wound and underwent major surgery this week.

Mike Hill, chairman of Cheswardine Parish Council, today said the thoughts of everyone were with the Whalley family at this time, and hoped David would be able to make a full recovery.

"It's very sad when you hear about these accidents happening, so I wish everyone in the family well, and a speedy recovery for the young lad," he said.

"I really hope he makes a fast recovery and everything is ok when he comes out of hospital."

Police have not issued an appeal for witnesses in connection with the incident.