POLICE patrols in Basingstoke have been stepped up after two stabbings in the town over the weekend.

Hampshire Constabulary have also said they are treating the incidents as "separate but targeted", adding there is no risk to the wider public.

It comes after the police confirmed that two boys arrested in connection with the Brighton Hill stabbing - two boys aged 15 and 16 - have been released on conditional bail.

Basingstoke's Neighbourhood Inspector, Richard Lane, said he could "understand why residents might be concerned about these incidents".

“We would like to reassure the community that we are treating both these incidents as separate but targeted events and we do not believe there is a risk to the wider public," Insp. Lane continued.

“Officers will be carrying out extra patrols around the town so if you have any concerns, please don’t hesitate to speak to them.”

On Saturday at around 2.30pm, officers were called to Schubert Road in Brighton Hill after a 17-year-old boy was stabbed.

He was taken to hospital with stab wounds, and has since been discharged. The two boys, who have now been released, were arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, and are both from Basingstoke.

Just over 24 hours later, police were called to Elizabeth Road, South Ham, after a man in his 40s sustained stab wounds.

The man suffered "serious" injuries, and he remains in hospital. No one has been arrested in connection with this incident as yet, and police say enquiries are "ongoing".

Police are asking anyone with information about either incidents to get in contact on 101, quoting 44200223842 for the Schubert Road incident or 44200225488 for the Elizabeth Road incident.

Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.