Residents of a Hampshire town have spoken of their shock after a gang threatened to shoot or stab a group of teenagers in their local playground.

The gang struck at the Carvers Recreation Ground in Ringwood.

Two 15-year-olds and a 17-year-old were threatened with being stabbed or shot when approached by three robbers.

The teenagers were ordered to hand over a mobile phone beforethe gang fled.

Today residents in the town spoke of their concerns following the incident in the New Forest town.

James McGrath, 28, said: “I am shocked. We are considering buying a house here because it’s lovely and quiet and safe for children.

"You wouldn’t expect that to happen in Ringwood.”

Clare O’Neill, 36, from Ringwood, said: “I can’t believe that would happen here.

"I’ve lived here for nine years and in the area for 30 years and I’m absolutely shocked by that. We moved here because it’s so quiet.”

Hanna Knibbs, 23, from Ringwood, said: “That’s just something that doesn’t happen here.

" Things have got a bit worse in terms of vandalism and I think they should lock the park at night but I’m surprised to hear that.”