A GROUP of four boys disturbed a service at Salisbury Cathedral - shouting abuse and splashing water from the font.

Police say the incident happened at around 8.10am yesterday (Sunday, October 20).

And shortly afterwards, at around 9.30am, a woman in her 50s was walking through the Maltings shopping centre, when she was spat at and verbally abused by the same group of boys.

She called police, who attended and made an arrest shortly afterwards.

A 14-year-old local boy was arrested on suspicion of common assault, a public order offence and possession of cannabis.

He was taken to Melksham Police Station, interviewed and has since been released on conditional bail while our enquiries continue.

Police are appealing to witnesses to the antisocial behaviour incidents to come forward.

Sergeant Steve Jolly, from Wiltshire South Community Policing Team, said: “This was disgusting behaviour by this group of boys, not only disrupting and disturbing church-goers, but spitting at and verbally abusing a woman who was visiting the city with her husband.

“These incidents do not represent the image of Salisbury that we want to portray to tourists and residents, and it is important to note that it will not be tolerated.

“We have made one arrest, but our enquiries are continuing and we need to hear from any witnesses who can assist. We know there will have been a lot of people who were present during both incidents, so if you can help, please call us.”

Anyone with information should call Sgt Jolly on 101, quoting crime reference 54190104496. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.