FOUR teenage boys have been arrested following a homophobic attack on a 15-year-old boy.

Three 14-year-olds and one 15-year-old have been arrested by police on suspicion of assault after the hate incident.

The attack left the teenage boy with head injuries. He was taken to hospital to receive treatment and is now recovering at home.

The four teenagers, and a 15-year-old boy who was arrested yesterday, have all been questioned and bailed pending further police enquiries.

Officers have appealed for anyone who witnessed the attack, or anyone with information, to contact them.

Shortly after 3.30pm on Monday, a 15-year-old boy was subjected to homophobic abuse while walking along Manchester Road.

A confrontation then took place at Manchester Road Park, before the boy was assaulted by a number of males.

Chief Inspector Phil Spurgeon, of Greater Manchester Police’s Bury district, said: "An innocent teenager was subjected to a sickening attack as he walked down the street and we are doing all we can to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

“Thankfully, the boy is now recovering at home with his family but hate crime has no place on our streets and we are treating this very seriously.

“Whilst we have arrested five boys as part of our investigation, I would encourage any witnesses or anyone with any information to get in touch as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 8172, quoting incident number 1783 of February 11, 2019.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Anyone who thinks they have experienced hate crime should call police on 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.