A 13-year-old boy has been assaulted by a group of five young people as he walked with a girl in the Purewell Meadows area of Christchurch.
Officers investigating the assault are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.
The incident happened between 3pm and 5pm on Thursday 17 November 2022.
The victim managed to leave the scene and was helped by two unknown male members of the public.
The boy sustained bruising to his eye, as well as an injury to his rib and back.
Police Constable David Carmichael, of Dorset Police, said: “This was a frightening incident for the young victim and our enquiries are continuing to identify the offenders. I am now in a position to appeal for two members of the public who helped the victim shortly afterwards to get in touch as they may have vital information.
“Also, I would ask anybody who may details to help further my investigation to please come forward.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/contact or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55220187107. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.