THREE students at Ockendon's Harris Academy were injured, two suffering knife wounds, following an incident in the town's Bonnygate Wood Park this afternoon (Thursday, 20 March).

They were assaulted by a number of youths, who were not connected with the school. It has been reported some of the gang wore balaclavas and fled the area after the confrontation.

The injured children returned to the school before being taken to hospital.

The incident sparked a major police response, with many officers and vehicles flooding the area.

Essex Police have issued the following statement: "Officers are continuing an investigation and maintaining a presence in the South Ockendon area after responding to reports of a serious assault.

"A disturbance was reported between a group in the area of Bonnygate Park, off Daiglen Drive, at around 4.20pm today (Thursday 20 March).

"Three people suffered injuries and were taken on to hospital, two with stab wounds.

"None of the injuries are life-threatening.

"Response officers were on the scene within minutes alongside ambulance service colleagues, providing immediate care to the victims and carrying out a search of the area.

"This work is continuing this evening as our teams pursue a number of targeted lines of inquiry.

"Officers are also maintaining a presence across South Ockendon to provide reassurance as our investigation progresses.

"Anyone with concerns, or information or footage which could assist us, is asked to get in touch with us directly.

"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service which is available 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week.

"It can be found at the bottom right of our homepage at www.essex.police.uk.

"Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services. Alternatively, you can call us on 101. Please cite incident 896 of 20 March."

The school has contacted parents to say: "You may be aware about an incident that took place after school in Bonnygate Wood Park at the end of the school day.

"Unfortunately, three of our students were injured, but thankfully, none of them sustained serious injuries.

"The group involved have no connection to our school. We have been in close contact with the families of the children affected to ensure they have received the appropriate care and support.

"We understand that incidents like this can be unsettling for students and some may have questions or concerns.

"At times like this, it's especially important that we maintain our familiar routines to provide a sense of stability and ensure that students feel supported by their local community.

"If you have concerns about your child regarding this incident, please do not hesitate to contact the school."