PRAYERS were being said yesterday for two young friends injured when they were hit by a lorry as they walked home from school.

A 12-year-old boy from Newbottle, Houghton-le-Spring, suffered serious head injuries.

Last night his condition was described as critical but stable in Newcastle General Hospital, while his 11-year-old friend was detained in Sunderland Royal Hospital for observation.

Police said it appeared that the boys had run into the path of the lorry from behind a bus at 3.55pm on Monday.

The police helicopter landed on the village green and officers gave first aid.

Both boys attend St Robert of Newminster Roman Catholic School, Washington, where pupils said prayers yesterday