THREE men sustained stab wounds following a serious assault in Bournemouth on Thursday.

Dorset Police was called at 9.44pm to a report of a fight near to the amusements on Bournemouth Pier.

Officers attended and located three men, all aged in their 20s and from London, who had sustained stab wounds. They were taken to hospital by the ambulance service.

One of the men had stab wounds to his back and has since left hospital, a second sustained facial injuries and a third was injured in the chest and arm.

Their conditions are not believed to be life-threatening.

Cordons were put in place to allow detective to examine the scene which were lifted at 12.20am on Friday.

Officers investigating the assault have now appealed for any witnesses to come forward.

Detective inspector Gavin House, of Bournemouth CID, said: “We are carrying out a full and thorough investigation to determine who was responsible for this incident.

“The public can expect to see an increased police presence near to the pier today as detectives continue their enquiries in the area.

“I understand there was a large number of people on the beach at the time of the incident and I would urge anyone who may have important information to assist my investigation to please get in touch.

“I am keen to hear from anyone who may have video footage of the incident and would please ask that you do not post or share this online out of respect for the injured people.”

Neighbourhood inspector, Jon Wasey, of Bournemouth police, added: “I know this incident will be incredibly concerning to the local community, but I would like to reassure you that we will continue to provide a visible presence and support detective in identifying the offenders and bringing them to justice.

“I would continue to stress that we are asking people listen to the government advice and if the beach is busy and you can’t socially distance, please go home to protect our NHS.

“Local officers will be patrolling in the area and can be approached with any community concerns.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email to 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk, or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55200091886.

Alternatively, to stay anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.