A teenager who suffered a large electric shock at a train station is likely to remain in hospital for many weeks and has "life-changing injuries", police say.

The 17-year-old boy was hurt at Ilford Station in Cranbrook Road just before 2.45am yesterday.

It is believed he was on the roof of a train and came into contact with overhead wires.

British Transport Police (BTP) said officers were waiting to speak to the boy but he was expected to remain in hospital for "many weeks" due to the extent of his injuries.

A spokeswoman described his wounds as life-changing and that they were "consistent with falling from a height and receiving an electric shock".

The spokeswoman added: “The full circumstances surrounding how the man came to receive his injuries are currently unclear.

"His recovery is paramount and he will be spoken to by officers in due course.

“Enquiries are ongoing and officers are currently looking at CCTV opportunities from the surrounding area.

"They are also making local enquiries and speaking to witnesses.

"Anyone who has any information about the incident can contact British Transport Police free on 0800 40 50 40 quoting background reference38 of 28/5/2012."