Police hunt after man sprays group of boys near Bristol

A boy was taken to hospital after he and a group were sprayed with an irritant substance by a man near a petrol station in Yate.

Six boys, aged between 12 and 15, were walking along the road just before 7.30pm on Boxing Day (December 26) when a car pulled up near the Shell Petrol Station on Westerleigh Road.

Police say a man got out and sprayed an irritant substance, similar to pepper spray, at the boys before driving off at speed.   

One of the boys went to hospital and was discharged after treatment to skin irritation, while another was cared for at home. 

Officers searched the area at the time but were unable to locate the suspect vehicle.

They are appealing for witnesses and any CCTV or dashcam footage as enquiries continue. 

Anyone with information which could help is asked to call 101 and give the reference 5223314794. Alternatively they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously.