FEARS of gang reprisals are mounting following a violent New Year’s Day clash which left a Swanage teenager fighting for life, it has emerged.

A 16-year-old Swanage boy remains in a serious condition in hospital after suffering life-threatening head injuries during the early morning incident.

Two other teens were also hurt in the altercation, which took place by the Shore Road shelter close to the town’s beachfront.

Now Dorset Police have urged local parents to “be vigilant” following reports a small number of young men may be planning a revenge attack.

Some worried residents told the Daily Echo tensions are running high between local youths – who regularly meet close to where the alleged assault took place – and teenagers from nearby Langton Matravers.

It has been alleged a number of youths from Langton Matravers were involved in the New Year’s Day incident.

Sgt Jon Wassey, of the Wareham Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “Information has been received that a small number of young men may be planning to seek retribution. However at this time this cannot be confirmed.

“I would appeal to parents to assist Dorset Police in reducing any risks by advising their children as to the consequences of teenagers taking matters into their own hands – reckless and irresponsible behaviour will not achieve anything.”

Locals say groups of teenagers regularly meet near the Shore Road shelter, but violence like that which took place on New Year’s Day is very rare.

Detective Inspector Stewart Dipple said: “From our enquiries, we know there was a large number of young people on the seafront by the blue shelter on Shore Road at the time of this serious incident.

“We are appealing to these young people to speak to police if they witnessed this incident which has left three teenagers with injuries.

“Equally, if anyone has heard any information while at school or college – or on social networking sites – I’d urge them to inform police and this will be investigated.”

A 17-year-old boy from Lytchett Matravers has been arrested an bailed while police make further enquiries.