A 17-year-old has been left with second degree burns after a gang of youths attacked him and set him alight.

The attack happened on Tuesday in a quiet street in Sacriston, near Durham.

The teenager left his home in Highfield at about 1.15pm. He was confronted by four youths, who punched and kicked him on the ground. They then poured a liquid over him and set him alight.

The youths ran off in the direction of Plawsworth Road and the teenager managed to get help from neighbours.

He was taken to the University Hospital of North Durham, suffering from second degree burns to his back, shoulders and arms. His condition is described as not serious.

Acting Detective Sergeant John Simons, of Chester-le-Street CID, said: "This was a nasty and determined attack in which an accelerant was used to injure a young man."

He said the teenager was fortunate not to have been more seriously hurt.

The youths had been carrying a clear, plastic bottle which is thought to have contained the substance used in the attack.

Acting Det Sgt Simons said it was possible the bottle had been discarded somewhere.

Anyone with information is asked to call Chester-le-Street CID on 0191-388 4311, or Crime-stoppers on 0800 555111.