A GANG of drunken teenagers behaved like a “pack of animals” when they beat up a promising chef, a court heard.

Craig Rooney, 18, nearly died after being set upon in a St Helens park.

Liverpool Crown Court heard yesterday the 10 students punched Mr Rooney to the ground.

As he lay bleeding and frothing at the mouth, it is alleged they stamped, kicked and bit him in a “frenzied assault” while several of the girls also spat on him.

Mr Rooney needed emergency surgery for a severe brain injury.

The apprentice mechanical engineer and part-time chef spent nearly three weeks in intensive care. It is feared it could take up to two years to find out how much he will recover.

Three teenagers have already admitted their part in the ferocious attack.

James Michael Ellison, 18, of North Street, and Stephen Francis, 18, of Hampstead Close, both St Helens, have admitted wounding and violent disorder.

Francis has also pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm with intent, while a 16-year-old has admitted violent disorder.

Two 17-year-old girls, two 16-year-old girls and three 17-year-old boys are now facing trial accused of GBH with intent.

In interview, one of the girls admitted the gang had behaved like a “pack of animals”.

She described seeing the men jumping on Mr Rooney’s head. Another girl complained her foot hurt after kicking him.