Masked men armed with bats break into farm and assault child

A woman and the young boy were taken to hospital after being assaulted by the three men
A woman and the young boy were taken to hospital after being assaulted by the three men

Police are hunting for three masked men who broke into an Oxfordshire farm and assaulted two people, including a young boy.

The three men forced entry into a farm in Goring Heath, South Oxfordshire, and assaulted two people inside the property.

They made demands for money before being chased away by other members of the public. They left on foot onto the B4526 away from the address.

The incident happened on Saturday (1 December) between 7.45pm and 8.30pm.

The three men had baseball bats, were dressed in dark clothing and had their faces covered.

A woman in her thirties and a young boy and girl were in the property at the time.

The woman and the young boy were taken to the Royal Berkshire Hospital as a precaution and were later discharged.

Nothing was taken from the property.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Christopher Cassidy of Abingdon Force CID, said: “I am appealing for anyone with information to get in touch.

“This was a serious incident and anyone who saw this happen is asked to please contact police”

The incident follows news of the NFU calling rural crime one of the most “pressing, impactful and devastating” issues farmers face.

If you have information about the incident please report this via the non-emergency police number 101 quoting reference 43180367986 or contact us online. If you do not wish to speak to police, please contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.