Schoolboy, 12, arrested on suspicion of ‘appalling’ homophobic assault in Liverpool

A 12-year-old schoolboy has been arrested in connection with an “appalling” homophobic attack in Liverpool which left a man with serious injuries.

Merseyside Police said the young boy was held on suspicion of homophobic aggravated assault following an attack on two men, in their 30s, in Anfield on Saturday.

The force said the men were walking down Manningham Road at about 9.20pm when they were approached by three male youths.

The boys allegedly made homophobic insults before one of them produced a knife and assaulted the men.

One of the victims sustained injuries to his head and neck, described as serious but non-life threatening, while the second sustained a minor hand injury.

Both were taken to hospital for treatment and were left incredibly shaken by the incident, police said.

Detective Inspector Tara Denn said: "This was an appalling and unprovoked attack on two men simply making their way home and we are working tirelessly to locate those responsible.

"Two men have been left with significant injuries tonight and the hate and violence that has been inflicted on them is simply unacceptable and won't be tolerated on the streets of Merseyside."