POLICE have launched an investigation after two nine-year-old boys were attacked while on a school trip in Avebury.

The boys, who were taking part in an activity day organised by Liden Primary School, were set upon outside a public toilet close to the ancient stones.

One pupil was allegedly punched in the stomach and the other was said to have had an eye gouged by a middle-aged assailant, who spoke with an Australian accent.

Both boys are still suffering flashbacks of the incident, which happened on Wednesday.

Peter Kohn, headteacher of the 370-strong school, has promised to co-operate fully with the police, who are seeking witnesses.

He said: "It appears that two children were accosted as they came out of a toilet. Very few details are known."

The school party comprised 34 children and six adults and Mr Kohn, a former chairman of the Swindon Association of Primary Headteachers, stressed that the attack was not sexual in its nature.

He added: "There is nothing to suggest that this was sexually motivated both boys were physically assaulted.

"We are working closely with the police we want to get to the bottom of this. As soon as the police have concluded their investigation we will be writing to parents."

The parents of both boys have asked us not to include their names.

The 35-year-old mother of one of the boys said: "The lads held it together until they got home then they cried their eyes out.

"It's shocking for something like this to happen to two nine-year-old boys.

"My boy and the other lad had to have the Thursday off school because they were so upset.

"They are also having problems sleeping because of their nightmares."

Inspector Jerry Dawson, of Marlborough section commander for Wiltshire police, said enquiries are being made but no arrests have yet been made.

"We are aware that an assault took place against two children near to the Avebury educational complex, which is used by many schools.

"We are working with colleagues in Swindon to establish if this was a deliberate attack."

The school says it followed all guidelines governing school trips, which included the drawing-up of a risk assessment plan.

The boys are due to give formal statements early next week.

Anyone with information should call Swindon police as soon as possible on 01793 528111.

Kevin Shoesmith