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Dogsthorpe: Community gripped by fear after attack
A BRUTAL gang attack on two men walking through a park in Peterborough has left residents shocked.
A BRUTAL gang attack on two men walking through a park in Peterborough has left residents shocked.The two Asian men were left needing hospital treatment, one suffering a broken leg, after they were attacked by at least seven youths in the playing field between Chestnut Avenue and Sycamore Avenue in Dogsthorpe.
Details of the attack remain sketchy but police have confirmed that the victims received a vicious beating by the gang who were wielding sticks and bricks, as well as using their fists and feet to cause injury.
The two victims, who have not been named, called 999 after the attack happened at 5pm on Sunday evening.
Seven youths have been arrested in connection with the incident.
Police have also revealed that they believe the attack was racially motivated.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the community.
Ward councillor Bella Saltmarsh said: "It's a horrible attack and the fact it was racial makes it even worse.
"We have had many reports of gangs of youths hanging around the area and I know a lot of elderly residents won't visit the shops in Central Avenue after dark because they are too frightened."
She added that pupils at Thomas Deacon Academy, based in Queen's Gardens, Peterborough, have spoken of their fears of walking out and about in the area at a youth panel meeting after hearing about the attack on the two men.
Police have increased the number of patrols along Central Avenue, Dogs-thorpe, since the last police panel meeting on January 26 called for a crackdown on youths causing anti-social behaviour in the area over the next three months.
Inspector Mat Newman said: "We are aware of a number of issues but I do not regard this as a gang problem.
"These offences relate to a small minority within the community who we are aware of and targeting.
"Anti-social behaviour involving young people has been chosen by the community as a panel priority.
"As a result we have increased patrols in the area and are working with Youth Services to provide facilities for young people at a time that suits them.
"I would urge anyone who doesn't feel safe in their area or has any other concerns, to contact their neighbourhood team and we will do everything in our power to resolve these issues.
"I would say that the public should have no doubt that where there are opportunities to enforce and uphold the law we will do so."
Anyone with information about the incident should contact DS Dave Trippett on 0345 456 4564.
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Saturday 04 February 2012
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