Two teenagers injured after weapons attack in park

Two teenagers were left with serious injuries after being attacked in a Lanarkshire park by a gang wearing in balaclavas and wielding weapons.

The two boys, aged 15 and 16, were part of a group of teenagers who encountered another group in a clearing at Drumpellier Country Park in Coatbridge on Monday night, between 18:00 and 19:00.

They were chased onto the canal path where the two boys were seriously assaulted. They attended hospital for treatment to serious injuries and were later discharged.

Police Scotland have appealed for anyone with information on the attack to come forward.

The group of youths had entered the park via Blair Road, and were heading along the canal path to a clearing in the woods.

At this point they encountered the second group, who were armed with weapons.

Det Con Carla O'Neill said: "It's vital we trace the people responsible for this frightening attack on a group of teenagers.

"The park and surrounding paths are used and enjoyed by the public and this type of reckless act has no place in our community.

"I'm appealing for anyone with information to come forward. I understand those who were attending the youths planned gathering may be concerned about speaking to the police but I want to reassure you - we're trying to find out exactly what happened to your friends and we need your help."

Anyone with details should contact the force.