Two boys assaulted in broad daylight on public footpath between Harrogate and Ripley

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It happened on the area of footpath that crosses Bilton Railway Viaduct between 6.15pm and 6.30pm on Tuesday, June 2 and involved a confrontation between two groups of boys.

Police say the victims and their friend were chased onto the viaduct by another group of boys - one of which has approached the first victim and punched him in the face a number of times, causing the victim to suffer facial injuries which required hospital treatment.

The victim’s friend, who has witnessed the assault, intervened to assist his friend and was subsequently assaulted by a second suspect who punched him in the back of the head.

This incident took place on a busy public footpath, in broad daylight, where members of the public have been exercising frequently.

North Yorkshire Police is now requesting the public’s assistance to help establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

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In particular, officers are appealing for information about the identity of the two suspects in this incident.

The first suspect is described as a 16 to 18 year-old white male, 5ft 9ins to 6ft tall and is described as being well built. The male has medium length brown hair and is described as wearing a blue t-shirt and grey shorts whilst carrying a dark blue backpack. At the time of the incident, this male is said to be in the company of others and on a bicycle.

The second suspect is described as a white male, aged approximately 16 to 18 years-old, with a thin build and more than 6ft 2ins in height. He is also believed to have been on a bike and was wearing a black t-shirt with grey jogging bottoms.

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2, and ask for Ryan Rudd. You can also email [email protected]

If you wish to remain anonymous, you can pass information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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Quote the North Yorkshire Police reference number 12200093071 when giving information.

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