Vigil at scene of anti-gay attack

James Parkes suffered a fractured skull but left hospital on Friday

A candlelit vigil against homophobia is due to be held in Liverpool at the scene of an attack which left a trainee policeman seriously injured.

James Parkes, 22, was off duty when he was attacked by up to 20 youths as he left Superstar Boudoir in Stanley Street with his partner last Sunday.

His partner helped organise the vigil in Stanley Street, calling it a chance to take a stand against homophobia.

Mr Parkes' skull was fractured but he was released from hospital on Friday.

Twelve boys have been arrested and bailed over the attack.

We are pleased to see people are as outraged by this attack as we are Tom Downey, victim's partner

Merseyside Police said Mr Parkes was discharged from hospital on Friday after treatment to multiple skull and face fractures and is recovering at home.

His partner Tom Downey said: "We have been amazed at the amount of support and best wishes that Jay and our families have received this week.

"We would like to thank everyone again particularly the gay community, the people of Merseyside and the police for all their support and good wishes.

"We are pleased to see people are as outraged by this attack as we are.

"The candlelit vigil is a great opportunity for everyone to come together and stand against this horrible type of homophobic attack."