THE family of a Bradford youngster who was hit by a van in Wakefield Road has asked people to pray for his recovery.

Ten-year-old Tayyab Akram was rushed to Leeds General Infirmary after the collision which occurred at 6.57pm yesterday evening (Wednesday).

Emergency services including the air ambulance and police were at the scene near the BP filling station and the road was closed northbound for several hours as investigation work was carried out.

“Doctors have said the next 48 hours are critical. He is in intensive care in an induced coma so we are asking people from all faiths to pray for him,” said close family friend Abdul Satar.

He added: “We are at the hospital and are praying for him. He is such a kind boy and cheeky like most 10-year-olds.

“He has not woken yet but his parents and uncle, Amjad Akram, have been in to see him and are talking to him. Everyone is so upset and in shock.

“The family has been inundated with calls of best wishes which they really appreciate, but as you can imagine they are really traumatised at the moment.

“Tayyab’s family also wants to personally thank a woman who was first on the scene and gave him first aid. She took her jacket off and gave him CPR until the paramedics arrived.

“She was so kind and compassionate and the family is asking for her to get in touch with them so they can personally thank her for what she did. She can ring me on 07888 693196. I am sure she will want to know how he is doing.

The doctors and staff at Leeds General are superb and are doing all they can.”

Mr Satar said the vehicle which hit him was a commercial vehicle and the driver stopped at the scene.

“He was very shaken,” said Mr Satar.

Mr Satar said Tayyab was a keen boxer and on the night he was injured he was taking part in an outdoor gym session with the boxing club.

“They go running as part of the training sessions and I understand it was during this that the incident happened, though details are still unclear.”

Tayab is a year six pupil at Bradford Academy and yesterday morning his classmates and the rest of the school said prayers for him.

Headteacher Tehmina Hashmi added: “We were shocked and sorry to hear of Tayyab’s injuries. We have spoken to the children in school to let them know and the whole school sends their thoughts to his family and has said prayers for Tayab and his parents and close family.

“I have written to them personally on behalf of the school and have informed staff of the incident. We look forward to Tayyab’s recovery and seeing him back in class.”

West Yorkshire Police are investigating the collision and are seeking witnesses who may have vital information.

A spokesman said: “Enquiries remain ongoing and anyone who saw or has dashcam footage of what took place is asked to contact the Western area Roads Policing Unit on 101 referencing police log 1490 of October 13. Information can also be given online at www.westyorkshire.police.uk/101livechat”