A MAN was attacked by three teenage boys after he stepped in to protect his 69-year-old mum.

The incident happened around 3.30pm on Friday, June 16 near King's Park Academy in Boscombe.

The victim, a 42-year-old Bournemouth man, was walking with his 69-year-old mother over the bridge on the approach to the school in Ashley Road.

They came across three teenage boys with bikes who were being obstructive to other pedestrians, who then started being abusive towards the pair.

It turned physical when the woman asked one of the boys "who he thought he was" and in response they grabbed her and pushed her to the ground.

Her son then stepped in and was assaulted by the boys. He suffered a head injury and was given first aid by staff at the school before going to hospital later that day, where he received stitches.

The three teenagers, aged around 15, headed in the direction of King's Park after the assault.

Police are appealing for any witnesses to get in touch.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55170090441.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.