CHESHIRE Police has increased its presence in Culcheth after a family was assaulted at their home.

It comes after a group of travellers moved into the village on Wednesday night.

Officers say a couple and their son were left traumatised after they were attacked by a man yesterday, Thursday, between 6.30pm and 7.30pm.

It is understood that they did not require hospital treatment but have been left shaken by the assault.

It has also been reported that a 16-year-old boy was threatened and a small quantity of beer was stolen from a shop.

Enquiries have been ongoing in a bid to trace those responsible and officers seized a red car on Warrington Road today, Friday, which is believed to have been involved in the incidents.

Inspector Chris Adkins, who is responsible for policing in the Culcheth area, said: “We are taking these incidents seriously and I would like to reassure the local community that all steps are being taken to identify and apprehend those responsible.

“There is an increased police presence in the area to provide reassurance to residents and this will continue into the weekend as we progress with our enquiries.

"If anyone has any concerns then I would urge them to speak to a local officer.”

Police say they have received a number of reports of criminal activity involving a group of men in a red BMW car since a group of travellers set up at camp in Culcheth.

It has previously been reported that a group of travellers had taken up residence on Common Lane in Culcheth before moving to land on Warrington Road in Culcheth.

Police say the land is privately owned and its owners are working to resolve the issue with the police.

If anyone has any information, which could assist officers with their enquiries, they are urged to call 101 quoting incident number 821 of 10th July or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.