ARMED police and the dog unit were called to Somerford in Christchurch after a woman was assaulted by someone with a knife.

Dorset Police were called to Edward Road in Christchurch around 4.45pm on Thursday after reports a woman aged in her 30s had been assaulted in the garden of an address.

It was reported that the offender had a knife.

Officers, including armed officers, the dog unit and NPAS helicopter attended and carried out a search of the area but no one was located.

An investigation is underway to establish further details, including CCTV and house-to-house enquiries and speaking to the woman.

No arrests have been made.

The woman sustained a minor facial injury and was taken to hospital by ambulance as a precaution.

A spokesperson for Dorset Police said: "Members of the local neighbourhood policing team can be approached with any community concerns."