A child has been left 'shaken and sore' after it was alleged a group of teenagers wearing balaclavas threw a lit aerosol can at his face when walking through a park in Oldham.

On Bank Holiday Monday at approximately 1pm, a 12-year-old boy was walking along the path near Pearly Bank in the Sholver area when it is alleged four teenagers set fire to an aerosol canister and threw it at him.

The child's mother, who did not want to be named, said her son was injured in the attack as the can "exploded" in his face, burning the right side of his face and singing his hair.

She said: "He was very lucky in all honesty as the burns did not blister, but his face is very sore.

"He is still very shaken up.

"He hasn't needed to see the GP as of yet, but we are keeping a close eye on him. 

"He had a few sleepless nights."

The Oldham Times: His mother said the lit aerosol can exploded in his faceHis mother said the lit aerosol can exploded in his face (Image: Newsquest)

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Photographs after the alleged assault show the boy's face was red while his facial hair, eyebrows, eyelashes and hair were singed. 

The mother also claimed the offenders were either wearing face coverings up to their noses while one had a balaclava.

In a desperate plea, the mother is urging fellow parents and residents to search for any CCTV footage they may have in the area or of nearby Longfellow Crescent.

She said: "I'm really hoping this is dealt with as it is frightening for anyone to go through.

"Unfortunately, my son is the only eyewitness and the boys had face coverings on and there is no footage due to where it happened.

"Anyone with information would be greatly appreciated as this could happen to another child."

Greater Manchester Police confirmed it was called to reports of an assault at a playground on Monday, May 1, at around 3pm.

In a statement to The Oldham Times, the force said: "An investigation was launched as a result, but unfortunately no suspect could be identified.

"If any new information or detail is still available to help officers with their enquiries, GMP would urge the public to get in touch as soon as possible."

Anyone with information can contact GMP by ringing 101 and quoting 1820 of 01/05/2023 or by contacting Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

If you have a story, I cover all things Oldham from food reviews and local business news to music and events, pubs, education, crime, property, health, community concerns and much more. Please email me at Olivia.bridge@newsquest.co.uk or send me a message on Twitter @Livbridge with your news.