A 14-year-old boy has been sentenced to an 18 month detention and training order after assaulting another teenager with a hammer.

The boy attacked his 16-year-old victim on the roundabout at the junction with Redhouse Way and Millgrove Street in North Swindon on January 30.

The other youth received a deep cut to his head and attended Great Western Hospital for treatment.

The attacker pleaded guilty to all charges of assault, GBH and two counts of possession of offensive weapon in a public place and was sentenced at Swindon Crown Court on Thursday.

Detective Constable Snezhanna Lennon said: “Numerous witnesses came forward following this incident and provided vital evidence which helped us bring this case successfully to court.

“This is a great example of the police and local community working together.

“This incident was extremely nasty, it was fortunate that the young victim did not sustain more serious injuries given the weapon used, and I have no doubt that it has had a negative impact on him.

“Understandably, this incident caused concerns amongst the local community and additional patrols were carried out in the weeks that followed.

"Members of the public were also encouraged to speak with local officers and PCSO’s during their patrols who were able to provide reassurance that a detailed investigation was being carried out."