TWO men were stabbed in Bournemouth town centre in the early hours of yesterday morning.

The men were hurt following an incident in a pedestrianised area of Old Christchurch Road near the junction with Albert Road at 12.45am.

A group of four men in their 20s were approached by a gang of teenagers who began chasing and attacking them.

Following the attack, the teenagers made off along Old Christchurch Road in the direction of Horseshoe Common and Yelverton Road.

One of the victims was found at an address in Richmond Hill with a stab wound to his leg and was taken to hospital for treatment to injuries that were not believed to be life-changing or life-threatening. The second victim also had a stab wound to his leg which is not life-changing or life-threatening.

As reported yesterday, Albert Road in Bournemouth was cordoned off by police.

Detective Constable Ben Swain, of Bournemouth CID, said: “We have launched an investigation to identify those responsible for this violent attack and have been carrying out a number of enquiries, including a review of CCTV footage in the area.

“I understand there were a number of people in the area at the time of this incident and I would urge any witnesses or anyone with information that can assist our investigation to please contact us.

“There will be an increased police presence in the town centre as we investigate this matter and local officers can be approached by members of the community with any concerns.”

Police are not currently linking the attack with a serious assault at the Royal Bath Hotel this morning.

Anyone with information should call police on 101, quoting 55190090204.