Boys, 14 and 12, injured in Tramlines attack after reported assault at popular Sheffield festival
A police probe has been launched
Police and organisers have confirmed the incident, which is understood to have happened near the Open Arms stage, one of the smallest on the festival site at Hillsborough Park.
One of the youngsters was aged 12, and the other was 14.
Relatives of the injured children have claimed on social media that the older boy was hit and then kicked while he was on the ground, and that he was later taken to hospital for stitches to wounds. It is also claimed that the boy lost a tooth.
South Yorkshire Police confirmed officers are investigating the attack and want to hear from witnesseses.
The incident happened while Big Ang and Siobhan were scheduled to be performing on the Open Arms stage. It was around the time that Courteeners were headlining the main stage.
A South Yorkshire Police spokesman said: “We are investigating reports of an assault in Hillsborough Park during Tramlines Festival on Saturday (July 25).
“Around 9.40pm, it is reported that two boys, aged 14 and 12, were approached by a group of teenagers who punched and kicked them several times.
“Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information is being asked to report online or call 101. Please quote investigation number 14/133165/26 when you get in touch.”
Officials at the festival, which attracts around 38,000 fans each day, are aware of the incident, which they have stressed is completely at odds with an event which is considered to be a family friendly attraction.
A Tramlines spokesman said the organisation’s security team responded to an incident towards the end of Saturday evening’s show and its medical and safeguarding teams subsequently assisted two young people and the adults they were with.
They added: “We work closely with the police who are investigating the matter and we'll continue to give them every assistance.
“This was an isolated incident and completely at odds with the family friendly nature of the festival. We have procedures in place to identify and remove anyone undermining the safety and enjoyment of our audience.”
This year’s event saw fans turn out for a series of big name acts, including Fatboy Slim and Rick Astley, as well as comedians and other entertainment across the park site near Penistone Road.