A 17-year-old boy was reportedly 'kicked and punched' during an assault in Dorchester town centre.

It is suspected that a group of three or four men carried out the attack in South Street before fleeing down an alleyway near to the United Church.

Dorset Police says that it was 'quickly on the scene' and that the teenage boy was taken to hospital by officers for treatment but did not receive any 'serious injuries'.

Officers have just released information about the assault and are now appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward. 

The alleged attack occurred between 3pm and 3.30pm on Thursday May 16.

Police constable Jez Brotherton, of the Dorchester Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We are carrying out various enquiries into this assault as we look to identify those involved and I am keen to hear from anyone who may be able to assist our investigation.

“I understand there were a number of people in the area around the time of the incident and I would urge anyone who saw what happened, or who may have captured any relevant footage, to please come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55240073109.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.