Boy, 12, in hospital after he's hit by lightning bolt while playing football

A BOY of 12 was in hospital last night after being struck by lightning as he played in a school football match.

- Cyril Dixon

The unnamed pupil's heart briefly stopped while his father looked on in horror from the touchline.

Parents, teachers and paramedics managed to revive him after an electrical storm unleashed mayhem.

A 50-year-old man was also taken to hospital and other pupils were knocked over by the force of the lightning strike.

Witnesses said the referee urged terrified spectators to drop their umbrellas and phones in case they attracted another bolt.

Dozens of pupils were taking part in the district tournament.

One mother, who was watching her son in a game at Sele School in Hertford, said: "He was playing against the boy who was struck.