A THREE-YEAR-OLD girl was kicked in the face in one of two assaults on children in a park. 

After crawling through a tunnel in the playground in Northbrook Recreation Ground, Durrington, the exit was blocked by two teenage boys.

It is alleged that one of the boys kicked the three-year-old child in the face, causing reddening.

The incident happened in the Romany Road park at about 1.30pm on Monday, May 2.

About an hour later, an eight-year-old boy was playing in the park when he was approached by two boys.

One of them allegedly grabbed him in a headlock and pushed him to the ground, causing grazing to his face and elbow.

Police said the main suspect in both cases is a boy aged around 14. He was wearing a black top.

Chief Inspector Sarah Leadbeatter, District Commander for Adur and Worthing, said: “These are two particularly concerning reports of assaults against young children, who should be able to feel safe playing in their local park.

“We have been in contact with their parents and offered support, and we are committed to finding those responsible and bringing them to justice.”

Following the incident, police are increasing patrols in the area.

“We have listened to community concerns in relation to youth violence and disorder in the local area, and our local Neighbourhood Policing Team, which includes officers and PCSOs, will continue to proactively patrol the area, working alongside partners to prevent and detect any criminality,” Ms Leadbeatter added.

“Anyone with concerns or who would like to report an incident should report online or via 101, or 999 in an emergency.”

If you have any information about either of these incidents, please contact police, quoting crime reference 47220078254.