A teenager was fighting for his life today after being attacked in a Wolverhampton street that has been plagued by violence.

Thomas Barrett, aged 18, was punched to the ground in Broad Street.

The teenager, who police say is from Wolverhampton, was enjoying a night out with friends when he was approached by a gang of men and women outside the former Blunts shoe shop at 3am yesterday.

Police know of no motive for the attack, but it is believed that two groups were arguing.

Thomas’s parents were at his bedside today at New Cross Hospital, where he remains in a critical but stable condition.

Det Insp Darren Crutchley, of West Midlands Police, said today: “We are doing everything we can to identify the offenders in this incident and our thoughts are clearly with the family at this difficult time.

“Broad Street was particularly busy, so we know that there are people who were in the area who could have vital information.

“Those involved know who they are and are advised to contact us as soon as possible to help with our inquiry.”

Between 20 and 30 people are believed to have witnessed the violence.