Teenagers beat up Christmas elves, threaten them with airgun

A gang of teenagers attacked Christmas "elves" who were entertaining crowds, punching, swearing and even threatening the festive performers with an airgun.

The group surrounded the troupe of elves (not pictured) in Formby, Merseyside, after the Christmas lights were switched on.

"It started off with these teenagers trying to take their hats or telling the children they are not real elves," said Jan Hayes, who manages the Starkidz entertainers.

"Later on, a gang of about 20 cornered our group and one member was punched in the stomach as they were abused," Ms Hayes continued. One of the entertainers had an airgun held to his head, she added.

It was a very traumatic experience. The group member is extremely upset by this.

• Jan Hayes

Ms Hayes said the group had been visiting Fornby for five years but that it "may not return" next year.

The elves were there for the children.

We weren't being paid for being there - we were just there to give Formby a bit of Christmas magic.

• Jan Hayes

Merseyside Police is investigating a report of anti-social behaviour by a group of youths at the event, a spokesman for the force said.

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