AN ARMED gang of yobs brandishing hammers, poles and a fireman's axe attacked a group of youths in a street battle on Bank Holiday Monday.

Terrified residents who witnessed the violent fight in Ditchfield Road raised the alarm.

The warfare broke out just after 8.30pm as eight Widnes youths, aged 16-19, were walking from the station towards Ash Lane.

"They were confronted by a group of youths from Liverpool and Halewood," said Dc Paul Norcross.

"It is unclear as to why they were attacked. A witness saw them getting into a car and they were stopped . Weapons were recovered from the car including a bush pole, a made up hammer, a fireman's axe, car jack and jack handle.

"We would like to speak to anyone who witnessed the incident."

Five youths from Halewood and Liverpool were detained in police cells on Monday.

Two Halebank teenagers were slightly injured in the attack.

One victim was treated in hospital for head injuries and another sustained bruising.

Detectives are anxious to speak to anyone who may have seen the youths in the area of Ditchfield Road and Ash Lane on Bank Holiday Monday.

They were seen leaving the scene in a car which was later stopped.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dc Paul Norcross on 01244 613733 or ring crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111.

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