POLICE were called to a brawl in Christchurch on Friday evening.

Three people were arrested and two teenage boys were taken to hospital after two linked incidents in Rutland Road and Watermill Road.

Officers were initially called to reports of a disturbance at the first address at around 7pm.

It was said that a number of people had forced their way into a home in the street. During a row, a woman was assaulted, it was said.

The woman did not require hospital treatment.

Police investigating the Rutland Road incident say all of those involved are believed to be known to each other.

While officers were at the scene, they received a further call to reports of a row in nearby Watermill Road.

Individuals from the Rutland Road incident were also involved in the second report.

Police rushed to the scene, where those involved said two further assaults had taken place.

Two boys aged 15 and 16 were taken to hospital for treatment to minor injuries.

An 18-year-old Christchurch man was arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary in connection with the Rutland Road incident.

A 25-year-old Christchurch man was arrested on suspicion of assault and criminal damage and a 34-year-old local woman was arrested on suspicion of assault in connection with the Watermill Road incident.

All three have been released under investigation as officers continue their enquiries.