An 18-year-old was knocked out as he was assaulted by a group of youths while making his way home along the bypass near Beversbrook.

The teenager was walking home with two 17-year-old girls on Thursday August 1 when a group of 12 youths began to follow him.

Police, who have charged three youths for public disorder offences, say members of the group were abusive and threatening in their behaviour.

They knocked the 18-year-old unconscious and he fell to the ground in School Road around 11pm, where he was punched and kicked.

Nearby residents spotted the incident and helped by giving first aid to the boy and holding back the youths until a police unit arrived.

He suffered injuries to his face, but he didn’t need hospital treatment.

Police identified several of the youths after making inquiries and arrested two 15-year-olds and one 18-year-old on Wednesday August 14.

They were interviewed at Melksham Custody Unit and are currently on police bail until their return to the station on August 30.

More arrests are anticipated and any witnesses to this incident who haven't been approached by police should contact PC Monahan at Calne Police Station on 101.