Hunt for attackers after Halloween party stabbings

Eastleigh MP Liz Jarvis said: "The community is in just shock this morning that such an awful thing could have occurred.

"My thoughts are with the parents of the boys, the boys and the whole community.

"It is very sad to think that these five boys have been put in hospital as a result of this incident."

Jarvis urged people to "stay calm, don't be tempted to share information online and let the police do their job".

Senior investigating officer Det Ch Insp Elizabeth Pirie said they were trying to identify anyone who had been at the party, "whether that be having directly witnessed what took place, having filmed any footage which may be relevant, or who may be able to help us identify the unknown group."

Cordons have been placed along Park Road and Valley Road while officers speak to witnesses, check homes for video footage.

Police have also been speaking to residents at neighbouring houses and those in a number of other nearby streets.

St Boniface Church in Hursley Road will be open 09:00-17:00 through the week, while St Martin in the Wood in Queen's Road will be available Monday to Wednesday between 15:00 and 17:00.