THREE teenage girls subjected a youngster to a ‘hate crime’ in a Taunton park – leaving them with a cut face.

Police are appealing for information after the incident, in Hamilton Park, at around 3pm on Thursday, June 27.

The teenage victim was verbally abused and physically assaulted by a group of three teenage girls, police said.

“Due to the nature of some of the verbal abuse, we are treating this incident as a hate crime,” an Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson added.

“The victim sustained a cut to the face which did not require hospital treatment.

“All three girls were wearing balaclavas. One of the girls was wearing a black Nike tracksuit and trainers. The second was wearing shorts and a puffed jacket and the third was wearing a Hoodrick tracksuit.

“We are offering the victim support through Lighthouse Safeguarding Unit, our dedicated police department for victim and witness care and support.

“We have also provided the teenager and their family with additional links to external support agencies.

“If you saw anything, or have any information about the incident which could aid our investigation, please call us.”

Anyone who can help should call police on 101 and give reference number 5224167908. They can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.