Three local boys aged 15, 16 and 17 were arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent and have been released on police bail pending further enquiries following a reported stabbing in Poole at 3.57pm on Friday 5 November.

In addition, two local men, both aged 19, were also arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent. One has been released on police bail and the second was released without charge.

A local man in his 20s, who was found with a stab wound in Churchill Road, was taken to hospital for treatment to non-life-threatening injuries.

Detective Constable Emma Jeffries, of Bournemouth CID, said: “A full investigation is under way into this incident and four people have been released on police bail while our enquiries continue.

“I am appealing to anyone who was in the Churchill Road area at the relevant time and either witnessed the incident or has any information that could be useful to my investigation to please get in touch.

“Officers from the local neighbourhood policing team will be continuing their patrols in the area and can be approached with any concerns.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55210178964. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.