A GROUP of heartless youths who attacked a 73-year-old woman while out walking her dog in Calne are being hunted by police.

The 73-year-old was walking her dog in Bentley Lane, near to Bentley Woods, on Wednesday, May 2 between 12pm and 1pm when she was assaulted by six youths, around the ages of 17 to 20, and as a result sustained serious bruising to her arm.

They have been described as being white, and wearing dark trousers and hooded tops at the time of the attack.

PCSO Mark Cook, of the Calne Community Policing Team, said: "I was shocked and saddened to hear that this had happened to a 73-year-old lady in our town, while she was out walking her dog in the area of Bentley Woods.

"Whilst this happened near to the John Bentley School, we should be mindful not to jump to any conclusions that the students of the school were involved in this incident, until there is evidence to contrary.

"We have a very close relationship with John Bentley School in regards to any reports or incidents, and they have always been extremely supportive of our involvement to resolve any matters.

"Officers have attended the home address of the lady involved and we will be keeping in contact with her throughout this investigation to keep her updated on any developments.

"I would like to reassure residents that this was an isolated incident, and whilst Calne, and our wider rural villages continue to be a safe place to live and work, we are unfortunately not immune to incidents involving people who may behave in such an appalling manner as this.

"Every reasonable step will be taken, and all lines of enquiry will be fully investigated in an attempt to identify those involved in this matter."

Anyone with any information which could assist police with their enquiries is urged to contact Wiltshire Police on 101, quoting crime reference number 54180039157. Please ask for the information to be passed onto PCSO 8214 Osborne.