The victims of an "unacceptable" racially aggravated incident in Hemel Hempstead have been left "shaken", with officers appealing for information.

The incident occurred in Gadebridge Park between 5pm and 5.10pm yesterday, with reports of an altercation between several families, during which a number of people were assaulted, and multiple young children were pushed.

Racially offensive language was also used, with Detective Constable Lauren Jackson, investigating, saying: "This was a frightening incident for the victims who have understandably been left shaken by what happened.

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"This type of behaviour is absolutely unacceptable and we’re doing all we can to investigate. Additional patrols are also being conducted in the area for reassurance.

"We are hoping to gather information in order to establish the circumstances around the incident and are appealing for witnesses to please come forward.

"Were you in the park at the time? Did you see the incident or events prior to it?

"If you have any information or footage, please contact lauren.jackson@herts.police.uk."

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You can report information online at herts.police.uk/report, via online web chat at herts.police.uk/contact, or by calling the non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference number 41/48802/23.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.