A BOY of eight is fighting for his life after an accident while "milk float surfing".

Kevin Nightingale hopped onto the back step of the flatbed delivery lorry along with a pal, also eight.

The youngster fell and struck his head on the road and was rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

The other boy got off the truck safely and the driver left the scene.

He has been traced by police and is helping police with their enquiries into whether or not he knew the boys were on the back of the lorry.

The accident happened at 6.15pm on Friday in South Shields, South Tyneside.

The boys got onto the truck in Peddars Way and it was driven east into Marigold Walk where the youngster fell.

Kevin's grandmother Julie Nightingale, 43, said: "We have been told he is now stable and everyone is just hoping and praying we have him home soon and that he is going to be okay.

"We know he jumped on the back of the milk lorry as it set off but after a short distance he lost his grip and fell into the road."

Kevin was taken by ambulance to South Tyneside Hospital where they gave him a CT scan and transferred him to Newcastle General.

Mrs Nightingale added: "Kevin is a really lively, boisterous and fun little boy.

"We are all extremely worried and desperate that he pulls through."

Kevin's father, Kevin Snr, 26, and the youngster's mum Emma Butler, 25, are at his bedside in Newcastle General Hospital.

Eight-year-old Kevin is the grandson of a murdered doorman, also called Kevin Nightingale.

The 33-year-old was shot three times on his own doorstep on February 27 1996 in Drake Close, South Shields.

Nobody has ever been convicted of Mr Nightingale's murder.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the accident which injured young Kevin, leaving him in a critical but stable condition in hospital.

Neighbours spoke of their shock at Kevin's accident.

One man, 46, who did not wish to be named, said: "It was an awful thing to happen. My best wishes are with the boy's family and friends.

"I hope the lad will be all right. His parents must be worried out of their minds."

Anyone with information can call 03456-043-043.