Lynching suspect 'a renowned bully'

A girl accused of attempted murder after a five-year-old was "hanged" by a gang of children is a renowned bully, it was claimed today.

The 12-year-old is the prime suspect for the attack on Anthony Hinchliffe in Dewsbury, West Yorks. His family said he was taken from his mother's garden and lured to a wood by the girl, who lives locally. The boy was found with ligature-type marks around his neck and bruising to his body.

Neighbours said the suspect, who cannot be named, was well known locally. A resident said: "She is a renowned bully at school."

Neighbours claimed the 12-year-old girl's mother died recently. One said: "The girl has not been the same since. She's a troubled kid."

However, the father of the girl defended her and insisted: "My daughter loves kids." Speaking outside his home, he said: "I still don't really know what is going on. My daughter is supposed to have been involved but I can't see her doing anything like this."

Anthony's father Mark Hinchliffe, 36, who has not seen his son since the attack, said: "He's getting better but is deeply traumatised."

Specially-trained officers will today continue the painstaking process of interviewing Anthony. They will also interview the 12-year-old girl. Four other children have been released without charge. Police are still hunting for three other youths in connection with the attack. Detectives revealed children arrested in the case could face DNA tests.