POLICE investigating homophobic graffiti at a Hampshire recreation ground say they have identified the offenders - and the 12-year-old victim.

The graffiti is being removed and the young people responsible - all of whom are aged 11-13 - have been spoken to.

A police spokesperson said New Forest District Council reported "graphic and homophobic" graffiti at New Milton Recreation Ground.

An officer conducted an investigation and, working in partnership with the council and a school, identified the offenders and the victim the graffiti was directed towards.

"This has resulted in all the young people identified being spoken to and receiving community resolutions," said the spokesperson.

"The ages of these young people range from 11-13 and the victim was only 12.

"All those involved will now be required to complete some reparative work and education within school around hate crime.

"The graffiti is in the process of being removed to make sure further offence is not caused.

"Hate crime will not be tolerated by my team and from such young individuals is concerning. It is about educating them so they do not take these views into adulthood.

"My team will always work with our partners to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB) regardless of motivation.

"We recognise the impact ASB has on communities and we look to conduct partnership working so all the tools are available to tackle this."