A High Court judge is preparing to make decisions about the future of a 12-year-old boy who has not regained consciousness after suffering brain damage in an incident at home more than a month ago.

Specialists treating Archie Battersbee, of Southend, Essex, think it is "highly likely" the youngster is dead, and say life-support treatment should stop.

His parents, Hollie Dance and Paul Battersbee, have raised concerns about the doctors' proposals.

Hospital bosses have asked a judge based in the Family Division of the High Court to decide what moves are in Archie's best interests.

Echo: Archie is currently receiving treatment at Royal London HospitalArchie is currently receiving treatment at Royal London Hospital

Mrs Justice Arbuthnot is scheduled to consider the case at a private hearing in London on Thursday (today.)

Miss Dance has said Archie, who is being cared for at the Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel, east London, might have been taking part in a "online challenge" when he was hurt on April 7.

A campaign organisation called the Christian Legal Centre says it is supporting Archie's family.

Andrea Williams, the centre's chief executive, said: "We are standing with Archie and his family every step of the way.

"We want to give him every chance of life."

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