AN ATTACK in a park which left a man fighting for his life is being treated as attempted murder - and a fifth boy has now been arrested

Officers were called to Whitebeam Road, Worthing, shortly before 7.30pm on Sunday after a man was found injured in the street.

It is believed he was assaulted in nearby Longcroft Park.

He was taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton, where he remains in a life-threatening condition.

Police have already arrested four boys on suspicion of attempted murder and grievous bodily harm with intent.

The Argus: A man was found with serious injuries on Sunday A man was found with serious injuries on Sunday

A fifth boy has now been arrested by Sussex Police for attempted murder.

The suspects have all been released under strict bail conditions.

Sussex Police said officers will be conducting increased high-visibility patrols in the area to provide reassurance to the community, and to identify and deter criminal behaviour.

READ MORE >> Four arrested after man left in life-threatening condition

The investigation is ongoing and police want to hear from anyone who saw what happened, or who was in the park around that time and may have any relevant information.

Detective Inspector Simon Dunn, who is leading the investigation, said: “The assault and the build up to it occurred in a public park in daylight, so it was likely that other people would have witnessed the assault or the suspects running from the scene.

"I am keen to hear from anyone who has information but is yet to come forward.”

Members of the public can contact police online or by calling 101 quoting Operation Swallowtail. Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously to police via the independent charity Crimestoppers online or by calling 0800 555 111.