A TEENAGE girl, who was set alight in a Bromsgrove churchyard as she made her way home, has been discharged from hospital and is recovering with her family.

The 17-year-old was attacked in the churchyard of All Saints' Church in Burcot Lane around 10.45pm last Thursday after visiting a friend and later calling at a fish and chip shop in Birmingham Road.

She was discharged on Saturday night and yesterday, according to her mother, is on the way to making a full recovery.

The Advertiser/Messenger has agreed to the family's request for anonymity.

Detective Inspector Steve Eccleston, of Bromsgrove police, said: "This vulnerable young girl was the victim of a prolonged attack which resulted in burns to her ear and upper body.

"We have not yet established the type of accelerant used but we are pleased that the burns were not too serious and that the girl is now recovering at home with her mother."

He went on to say that contrary to some reports, indications are that the attack was not sexually motivated.

"We are dealing with this enquiry as a serious assault," he said.

Yesterday her relieved mother, speaking to the Advertiser/Messenger, said: "My daughter is okay and recovering.

"We have been overwhelmed by the support, great numbers of cards, flowers and good will messages we have received and want to say a big thank you to everyone."

The vicar of All Saints' the Rev Wendy Moore, said her congregation had been shocked on hearing the news and prayers were said at services on Sunday for the young girl's recovery.

Yesterday it emerged that police have arrested four people from Bromsgrove in connection with the assault and are in custody at Redditch and Kidderminster police stations.

They are two males aged 16 and 17 and two females of the same age.

Police inquiries are continuing.