A TEENAGE boy has been stabbed on Bournemouth seafront.

Dorset Police received a report at 9.39pm on Tuesday night that a teenage boy had sustained suspected stab wounds following an assault that occurred in the area of Pier Approach.

Emergency services attended and the teenage boy was taken to hospital for treatment to injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing.

Following enquiries by officers, a 21-year-old man from Southampton has been arrested on suspicion of inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent.

A spokesperson for Dorset Police said: "There will be an increased policing presence in the vicinity as police respond to and investigate this incident and officers can be approached by members of the public with any information or concerns.

"Officers were on scene within moments of the incident occurring, due to enhanced patrols along the seafront.

"These will continue throughout the summer as we work with our partners to provide an increased presence, and we will continue to deal robustly with any reports of crime and anti-social behaviour.

"We want to make it clear to those coming down to visit our coastline that any reported disorderly behaviour will not be tolerated and we will take decisive action in response, making full use of the powers available to us and our partners."

A Bournemouth resident told the Echo: "It was absolute chaos from about 9.30pm.

"All of a sudden there were sirens everywhere. I've never heard so many sirens, and it was high speed, like one after the other. It was chaos. I've honestly never heard anything like it.

"A helicopter flew directly above me and that’s when I knew something serious had happened."