A BOY was taken to hospital after a “violent” attack in a park.

The 13-year-old was with a group of friends in West Park Recreation Ground, near Robson Road, Worthing, on Wednesday when he was assaulted by two teenagers.

He was repeatedly attacked before members of the public intervened and he was later taken to hospital for treatment for facial injuries, police said.

Officers arrested two boys from Worthing, who were known to the victim, in connection this incident and two others, all reported to have occurred between July 6 and 21.

A 13-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm, common assault, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and sending by communication a threatening message.

He has been bailed with strict conditions until August 16, pending further investigation.

A second 13-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm, common assault, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress.

He has been bailed with strict conditions until August 20, pending further investigation.

Police are appealing for witnesses to this incident, which occurred about 4.50pm on Wednesday, July 21.

Chief Inspector Sarah Leadbeatter, District Commander for Adur, Worthing and Horsham, said: “This was a violent and unprovoked attack carried out on a young boy who subsequently required hospital treatment.

“This sort of behaviour will absolutely not be tolerated, and we will continue to work with partners including schools, local authorities and the local community to combat youth violence in West Sussex.

“I am keen for anyone who saw what happened, or anyone with any information about the incident, to please come forward.”

You can report it online or call 101, quoting serial 946 of 21/07.