Girl stable after scooter 'hit-and-run'

The girl was left unconscious by the incident

An 11-year old girl remains in a stable condition in hospital after being injured in a hit-and-run accident in Lisburn, County Antrim.

The girl, Deborah Griffith, was struck by a motorised scooter on Wednesday afternoon in the area between the town's cinema and football pitches.

Deborah's skull was fractured twice in the accident.

Police said two youths had been arrested.

I would like to see the authorities taking more interest in trying to get these things banned

Reverend Albert Griffith

Deborah was transferred to the intensive care unit of the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast. However, it is hoped her improved condition will mean she will soon be moved out of the unit.

A witness said the scooter came up behind her and knocked her to the ground.

'Grey area'

Her father, the Reverend Albert Griffith, is angry that motorised scooters are not more closely regulated.

Deborah Griffith: Improving

"I would like to see the authorities taking more interest in trying to get these things banned," he said.

"Young boys can go into shops and buy these scooters. I have heard that in some shops they don't need any insurance or licence to drive them.

"I think the authorities should come out before a child is killed or an older person is killed."

Lisburn Mayor Jim Dillon said there was no specific by-law governing the use of scooters.

"This is a tragic accident, which shouldn't have happened," he said.

"My heartfelt sympathy goes out to the young girl and her parents and I hope she has a speedy recovery.

"Some type of legislation will have to be introduced to cover these motorised scooters."

Reverend Albert Griffith: "Authorities must act"

Chief Superintendent Roy Toner of Lisburn police said: "My officers arrested two young people this afternoon in connection with this incident and those two people are now in custody.

"We have recovered a go-ped which we believe was connected with the tragic accident."

He said there was a grey area in the law governing the use of the scooters.