A 17-YEAR-OLD boy arrested in connection with the stabbing of a teenage boy near Sherdley Park has been released on conditional bail.

The attack happened on Marshalls Cross Road shortly after 7.30pm on Tuesday, November 5, as thousands were gathering for the annual Spark in the Park fireworks display.

A 17-year-old boy from St Helens was knifed in the back on a grass verge as families - many with young children - walked up to the Spark in the Park event.

Passers-by rushed to his aid and he was treated by paramedics. The injuries are not life-threatening.

A 17-year-old boy from Warrington was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm but has now been released on 'conditional bail'.

Superintendent Paddy Kelly said: "Although this incident did not happen at the fireworks display, this is a shocking incident which although is believed to be targeted, has taken place in an area where there are undoubtedly lots of innocent children and members of the public wondering around.

"This is currently a live investigation and officers at the scene are working with security staff to secure the area, analyse CCTV and conduct forensic analysis and urge anyone with information to come forward quoting log 1051 of 5th November.

“We cannot have this sort of reckless and brutal behaviour and we will do everything we can to bring the offenders to justice."

Please call 101, DM @MerPolCC or @CrimestoppersUK with any information.