A TEENAGER playing a dangerous version of Hide and Seek in Ledbury fell unconscious and required hospital treatment, after being held in a choke hold.

The 16 year old youth required hospital treatment last weekend, after playing the game "Manhunt".

A police spokesman said: "Manhunt is popular with teenagers and is essentially Hide and Seek, where once found, you get the opponent into a choke hold.

"Unfortunately the person playing was choked until he fell unconscious whilst at a park in Ledbury on Saturday, September 29. He was taken to Ledbury hospital with a bump to his head and later transferred to Hereford Hospital.

"Luckily there were no lasting injuries."

But police are warning that the outcome could have been much worse.

The police spokesman added: "The consequences could have been a lot more serious and we are urging teenagers not to play this game.

"Not only could you seriously injure somebody in the process but this game could lead to prosecution and a criminal record.Fortunately no serious injuries have been reported to police to date and officers are keen to warn the public now to ensure this remains the case."

The 16 year old youth involved did not wish to make an official complaint to the police, but he has asked them to raise awareness of this dangerous game.