First picture of young victim left fighting for life in Cannock town centre attack

The image of Josh Morgan, smiling at an 18th birthday party, was released as his mother spoke of her pain.

Josh remains in a critical condition following the attack a month ago and his mother spoke of how much she 'misses' him as she sits every day by his bedside at the University Hospital of North Staffordshire.

The assault happened when the 20-year-old, who is from the Cannock area, was in the Backcroft area at the back of Poundland, near to the Bank public house and Missoula, at around 2.05am on March 9.

His mother Clare said: "I can not begin to explain how much I miss my beautiful son, although we are by Joshy's side everyday. A month has passed without me hearing his voice and at this moment no one can tell me if I will ever be able to hear his voice again.

"The pain and the hurt is unbearable and no family or friend should ever feel hurt like this. We are so proud of his strength. We are so proud that he is our son. He is loved so much by us all."

Since the attack, detectives have arrested and charged two men.

Alistair Douglas, 24, of Longford Road, Cannock, and James Robb, 21, of Langdale Green, Cannock, have been charged with section 18 assault - grievous bodily harm – and appeared before magistrates at Cannock on Wednesday March 12. Douglas remains on bail while Robb is remanded in custody to appear at Stafford Crown Court.

DS Adrian Webb, investigating officer, said: "Our hunt for two women who are believed to have interacted with the suspects continues.

"They were standing by the Mr Sizzle van in Market Square at around 1.50am. They were both white, one wore black leggings or tight fitting trousers and a black top and the other wore a tight fitting bright orange dress above the knee and black stilettos – was this you?"

Anyone with information is asked to call 101.