An assault in the park off Sopers Lane, opposite the car park at the rear of Marks and Spencer at around 4.20pm on Sunday 20 November, resulted in two teenagers being taken to hospital for treatment.

Two boys – aged 15 and 16 – were with some friends when they were approached by a group of young people aged between 12 and 16 years old wearing masks.

The group asked what school the victims attended, before an altercation arose and both boys were assaulted, causing minor head injuries to both victims.

Police Constable Alexandra Donnelly, of Christchurch police, said: “I understand a member of the public witnessed what happened from the car park and spoke to the two boys after the incident in Marks and Spencer. I would ask them to please come forward as they may have important information to help my investigation.

“I would also urge anyone with information about who was responsible to please contact Dorset Police.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/contact or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55220188562. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.