The family of Ramsgate attack victim Sam Eastwell have made an emotional plea for an end to street violence across the UK.

His mother, Sharon, said: “Sam was in hospital for a month and his condition was so poor that we were invited to kiss him goodbye when his injuries led to organ failure.

“I want an end to the mindless agression that ends up with young people seriously wounded or dead after attacks in our towns and cities.

“It has been a harrowing and distressing time watching him fight for life and then the long road back from the brink of death. We would not wish any family anywhere to go through the emotional trauma we have faced."

Aidan Shepherd and Grant Vanscolina, both 16 at the time of the attack, admitted wounding with intent to cause grevious bodily harm and robbery on August 11 last year. They were sentenced to a minimum of fours in prison.