Woman dies following gang attack

Sophie was attacked while in the park with her boyfriend

A 20-year-old woman who was attacked by a gang of youths in a park in Lancashire, has died in hospital.

Sophie Lancaster and her 21-year-old boyfriend Robert Maltby were found with serious head injuries in Stubbylee park in Bacup, Rossendale, on 11 August.

Mr Maltby was left in a coma with bleeding on his brain but has since made a recovery.

Lancashire police have charged five teenage boys, aged between 15 and 17, with section 18 wounding.

These charges are now subject of a review in liaison with the Crown Prosecution Service, police said.

'Senseless loss'

Police have now renewed their appeal for witnesses and are looking for any information that could help with their enquiries.

Assistant Chief Constable Jerry Graham said the attack was "a tragic incident which has resulted in the senseless loss of a young and vibrant woman".

The couple were taken to Rochdale Infirmary after the attack, before Miss Lancaster was transferred to Fairfield Hospital, Bury, and then Hope Hospital's neurology unit in Salford.

Mr Maltby was briefly let out of hospital on Wednesday to visit Miss Lancaster.

A 15-year-old and a 17-year-old have been remanded in custody, while two 15-year-olds and 17-year-old were released on bail.

They are all due to appear before Burnley Youth Court on 27 September.