Police are appealing for witnesses after two attacks in two hours

Detectives are appealing for information after a 12-year-old boy was assaulted in Harrow Road.

The boy was in a corner shop at around 8.30pm on December 30 when he was approached by a gang of around 15 youngsters who assaulted him, before fleeing the scene.

Police arrive to find the 12-year-old bleeding with cuts to his head.

No arrests have been made.

He was taken by the London Ambulance Service to hospital and was later discharged.

The police believe the attack is connected with a second assault where a 42-year-old man was injured.

The man had been walking down nearby Wedlake Street, Kensal Green, at around 9.30pm when he was approached by a group of people who attacked him.

He was taken to hospital with a laceration to his head.

Detective Inspector Colin Crichton, from Westminster police, who is leading the investigation, said: “These attacks on a 12-year old boy and 42-year-old man were both frightening, and caused both victims head injuries.

“The motive for these attacks remains unknown. It is too early to say if these attacks are related to other incidents involving youth violence over the past week. We are pursuing all lines of enquiry.

“Our Safer Neighbourhoods team and council colleagues are working in the area to reassure the community. I would urge anyone who may have seen or heard something, or been in the area at the time of the attack, to get in touch as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information should call Westminster Serious Violence Team on 020 7321 9314/5 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.