Cross Gates community raises £1k in two hours for dog walker attacked by gang of teenagers in Manston Park

The 49-year-old man was assaulted by a group of teenage boys on February 27, leaving him with serious head injuries.

His injuries have left him unable to work for at least 12 months, the man's partner said, and the Cross Gates community has been left shaken by the unprovoked attack.

The community has now rallied around the man, named by his partner as Matthew, raising more than £1,500 through a Just Giving page to support the couple during his recovery.

Matthew's partner Karen, who did not wish to disclose their last names, said: "We were really surprised at how the community have rallied around with offers of support and love. We are amazed by people's love and generosity.

"Any help whatsoever would be great and fully appreciated."

The Just Giving page was set up by Katrina Slater, who runs the Facebook group Crossgates Present, Past and Future. Her original target of £1,000 was surpassed in less than two hours of the page being shared onto the group.

Katrina said: "It was a horrendous attack on an innocent member of our community.

"I reached out on our community Facebook page to alert members of the group to the incident and appeal for help in finding those responsible. Following this, I was approached by many members who wanted to help ease any financial worries the couple may have as the gentleman recovers from his injuries.

"I set up the link with a target of £1,000 and within two hours the target had been met! I have increased the target to £2,000 and, thanks to the lovely people of Cross Gates and the surrounding neighbourhoods, we have now raised 73 per cent of our target.

"The gentleman has a long road to recovery and everyone just wanted to help in some way.

"The community spirit in Cross Gates never ceases to amaze me and the amount of love, support and empathy that has been shown is heartfelt and genuine, it makes me proud to be a member of such a fabulous community."

Anyone with information on the attack is asked to contact Leeds District CID via 101 quoting crime reference 13210101252 or online via www.westyorkshire.police.uk/101livechat

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