THE community is pulling together in aid of a three-year-old boy who has been left in hospital in a critical condition after being hit by a stolen van yesterday morning, Tuesday.

Leo Durrington was walking with his mum and his nine-year-old sister on Wigan Road in Leigh when a Ford Transit Connect van mounted the pavement and struck him.

Leigh Journal:

Three-year-old Leo Durrington

The stolen van, which was being pursued by police, fled towards Twist Lane while officers stopped at the scene and gave Leo first aid before paramedics arrived.

As Leo remains in hospital, admin members of popular Facebook group Absolute Leigh have set up a GoFundMe page with money raised going to Leo's family.

Absolute Leigh admin member Stewart McGarrie said: "We are all hoping and praying for the best for Leo.

"He is a three-year-old just starting out in his life.

"Even if he gets better he will be traumatised and is going to be fragile for a while so he will need some help."

So far the crowdfunding page, which is attracting regular donations, has amassed more than £700.

Stewart added: "People think there is no community left in the world.

"The support we have had on the crowdfunding page proves that people care and this should show the rest of the country that there are still communities like ours around."

Two teenagers were arrested in connection with the incident which happened at around 10.35pm on Tuesday as the police investigation continues.

To donate to the GoFundMe page click here.