DETECTIVES leading the hunt for a gang of blade-wielding children were today continuing their investigations.

DETECTIVES leading the hunt for a gang of blade-wielding children were today continuing their investigations.

Two 12-year-old boys were held at knifepoint in Ipswich's Holywells Park by a trio of youngsters, one of whom is believed to be only ten.

The shocking attack took place in the park's playground at about 6.30pm on June 28.

The gang, thought to be a ten-year-old boy, a 14-year-old girl and a 14-year-old boy, goaded the victims before demanding they hand over a bicycle.

When they refused, the ten-year-old became violent, hitting the boys in the back, groin and face, before the 14-year-old, believed to be his older brother, brandished a knife and threatened one of them.

One of the victims managed to flee but the other's escape route was blocked. He was forced to hand over a few pounds.

Today, police said the victims had been video interviewed, while witness statements were being taken from two people who responded to an appeal following The Evening Star's publication of the story last week.

The ten-year-old was white, with short light brown hair in a shaven cut, freckles, and crooked teeth. The second boy was white, of slim build, with dark hair covered by a dark blue Nike baseball cap. The girl was also white, with blonde hair in a pony tail and lots of make up.

Detective inspector Kevin Hayward, who is leading the investigation, said: “It is unusual for robberies to occur in Ipswich and it is particularly upsetting that such young people were involved in this offence.

“I'm sure people would have been in the park at the time and I urge them to come forward.”

Anyone with more information about the robbery or who was in the park at the time should call Suffolk police on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

How can we solve Britain's knife crime epidemic? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk