Police are hunting for attackers who stabbed five teenage boys at a Halloween party in Hampshire.

Officers said an “unknown group” had gained entry to the party at a house in Park Road, Chandler’s Ford, and the stabbings happened shortly after 22:30 GMT on Saturday. Three boys aged 16 and two aged 17 were all taken to hospital with serious injuries.

Barton Peveril said it believes two of those attacked are students at the sixth form college. In a statement, it said support was being offered and “our thoughts are with the victims and their families”.

Hampshire Police wants to speak to anyone who was there or has footage, including doorbell camera footage, covering Park Road and the nearby area.

In an email sent to parents, the college on the outskirts of Eastleigh, said: “We are doing all we can to support our Barton Peveril Community at this time.

“Students can access support through their student progress advisors and the health and wellbeing team.

“Security is always present at both entrances of the college to ensure that only Barton Peveril College students have access to the campus.”

The head teacher of Thornden School in Chandler’s Ford confirmed former students had been injured in the incident.

In a statement, Caroline Lowing said: “We understand that some of our former students have sustained injuries and are receiving treatment and support. This news has been deeply upsetting for our school community.

“We are working to support any current students and families who may be affected and have appropriate wellbeing support available within school.”

Eastleigh MP Liz Jarvis said: “The community is in just shock this morning that such an awful thing could have occurred.

“My thoughts are with the parents of the boys, the boys and the whole community.

“It is very sad to think that these five boys have been put in hospital as a result of this incident.”

The MP urged people to “stay calm, don’t be tempted to share misinformation online and let the police do their job”.

Senior investigating officer Det Ch Insp Elizabeth Pirie said they were trying to identify anyone who had been at the party, “whether that be having directly witnessed what took place, having filmed any footage which may be relevant, or who may be able to help us identify the unknown group.”

Cordons have been placed along Park Road and Valley Road while officers speak to witnesses, check homes for video footage.

Police have also been speaking to residents at neighbouring houses and those in a number of other nearby streets.

Churches in Chandler’s Ford are also opening open their doors to offer support. St Boniface and St Martin in the Wood said they would be available for people to pause for reflection or light a candle.

St Boniface Church in Hursley Road will be open 09:00-17:00 through the week, while St Martin in the Wood in Queen’s Road will be available Monday and Wednesday between 15:00 and 17:00.