A TEENAGE girl was assaulted in a Runcorn park by a gang of boys.

The 13-year-old was walking through Phoenix Park in Castlefields with her friends when she was assaulted by four teenagers.

She suffered bruising to her face.

The four teens, who are believed to be aged between 15 and 16 and spoke with Irish accents, fled the scene.

The incident happened shortly before 6pm on Sunday, October 22 – police have issued this CCTV image of suspects they want to talk to in connection with the assault.

Enquiries are ongoing to locate those responsible.

Officers are now keen to speak to anyone who witnessed what happened or has any information.

Detective Inspector Clare Coleman said: “This would appear to be an unprovoked and isolated incident that has left the victim very shaken.

“We are following up a number of enquiries and are doing all we can to ensure that those responsible are located.

“We are appealing to anyone who was in the park around that time to come forward.

“This is a busy place with families, dog walkers and local people regularly visiting the park so it is likely that there were people around at the time and we would urge them to get in touch.

“You may have important information which could assist with our enquiries.”

Anyone who can recognise the suspects in this picture or has information about the incident should call Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident number 648 of 22/10/17.

Information can also be left at Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”