Two people have been arrested after a young girl was stabbed to death in Dorset.

The girl, who is around eight years old according to the Bournemouth Daily Echo, was taken to hospital for treatment. Her injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

Officers received a report at 5.45pm on Tuesday that a girl had suffered stab wounds at an address in Glider Close, Christchurch, Dorset Police said.

Police added that a man in his 20s from Christchurch was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm.

A woman in her 50s was also arrested on suspicion of aiding and abetting the crime, police said.

Both are still in police custody.

Police Commissioner Stewart Dipple said: “Police presence in the area is increased as officers conduct investigations at the scene.”

“I appeal to anyone who was in the area and saw what happened, or who has any information that could assist our investigation, to please come forward.

“Our investigation is still at an early stage and we ask the public not to speculate about the circumstances of the incident at this time.

“I understand this is a cause for concern and we will have members of our neighbourhood policing team on patrol over the next few days who will be available to the public.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting incident number 5524012837 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.