The boy was playing in his garden in Runcorn, Cheshire, when the accident happened on Thursday afternoon.

He and an 11-year-old friend set fire to a soft toy before pouring petrol on the flames and spraying them with WD40 oil.

It is believed the can of petrol exploded and both boys suffered burns.

Traumatic injuries

A Cheshire Fire Service spokesman said: "Both boys were badly injured but the injuries to the 10-year-old were particularly serious.

"He suffered awful burns to his legs and head.

"We would use this terrible incident as a reminder to all parents to keep accelerants and matches well away from children.

"We would also remind people that burns are the most traumatic, painful injuries which stay with a victim for the whole of their life."

The boy was taken to Whiston Hospital, Merseyside, then transferred to Alder Hey Children's Hospital.

His injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.