Boys arrested following assault of man in his 70s in Rushden High Street

The incident took place just after 2pm on Wednesday, August 13, when the man was allegedly assaulted by a group of teenage boys, who ran off after police arrived on the scene.

A member of the public stepped in to help – apprehending one of the boys.

A spokesman for Northants Police said: “Police officers are appealing for a member of the public who helped them following an assault in High Street, Rushden, to get in touch.

“Shortly after 2pm on Wednesday, August 13, a man in his 70s was allegedly assaulted by a group of teenage boys, who ran off after police arrived on the scene.

“A member of the public stepped in to help apprehend one of the teenage boys and officers would like to contact them to say thank you.”

Two boys - a 17-year-old and a 15-year-old - were arrested on suspicion of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and possession of a knife blade/sharp pointed article in a public place.

The older boy was also arrested on suspicion of possession of a Class B drug. Both have been released on police bail pending further enquiries.

The force spokesman said: “In addition to tracing the member of the public who helped them, officers would also like to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the assault.

"Witnesses or anyone with information are asked to contact Northamptonshire Police on 101 or alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

“Information can also be submitted online at www.northants.police.uk/RO and crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information.

“Please quote incident number 25000476071 when providing any information to make sure it gets to the right person as quickly as possible.”