A GANG armed with machetes tried to force their way into a Bournemouth home.

Emergency services were called to Mayfair Gardens in Kinson at 8.19pm on Sunday to reports of a serious disturbance.

Police officers on the ground were joined by colleagues from the NPAS police helicopter.

And four people - three of whom are under 18 - were arrested.

One resident told the Daily Echo: “My wife heard a noise and at first we thought some cars were being smashed up.

“When we came out to have a look we saw four people running out of Mayfair Gardens, all dressed in black.

“They didn’t seem to know where they were going and turned right at the bottom of the road before turning around and running in the other direction.”

Bournemouth Echo:

Another added: “We could hear the police helicopter buzzing around for a long time but no one told us what was going on.
“We decided it was probably best to go inside and keep out of the way just in case.”

A Dorset Police spokesman said: “Dorset Police received a report at 8.19pm on Sunday April 26 that a number of men had attempted to force entry to a property in Mayfair Gardens in Bournemouth. 

“It was reported that the men were in possession of machetes. There were no reports of any injuries and no entry to the property was gained.

“Officers attended and four people from the Leicester area have been arrested in connection with the incident. A 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary and possessing an offensive weapon and another 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of affray and possessing an offensive weapon. 

“A 20-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary. A 16-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of affray. All four are assisting officers with their enquiries.”

Mayfair Gardens is a cul-de-sac off Poole Lane.

Police have now appealed for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward to help with the investigation.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call Dorset Police on 101, quoting occurrence number 55200059005, or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.