A girl who was almost killed in a frenzied knife attack has been awarded over £18,000 from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).

Jessica Knight, 16, had been walking through a park in Chorley when she was attacked by Kristofer Beddar, who had drunk half a bottle of whisky.

She was stabbed 25 times and her injuries were so severe that she suffered a stroke and was in a coma for over a week.

Her mother Jill Walmsley said her life has been badly affected by the attack and that she often suffers double vision.

"We don’t know what the future holds yet – whether she’ll be able to work full-time or even drive," she added.

Jessica pursued a claim through the CICA, which has now agreed to the £18,895 payout.

The CICA is part of the Ministry of Justice and is responsible for administering the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme in England, Scotland and Wales.

It can pay out a maximum of £250,000 to the victims of a criminal attack.