An anti-Semitic attack on children of a Rabbi is being investigated by the police.

A 14-year-old boy was kicked in the leg and his skull cap was knocked off his head, while the thugs hurled racist abuse at him and his 12-year-old brother.

The group of teenagers surrounded the boys as they were walking in Aberford Park, Borehamwood on Sunday, May 7.

They had recently moved to the area as their father Rabbi Alex Chapper took over as community rabbi of the Borehamwood United Synagogue last month after Passover.

The father of five said: “Whilst in the park, they were surrounded by a group of teenagers around the same age who were calling out abusive and anti-Semitic words to them.

“They tried to extract themselves from the situation, but were followed and surrounded.

“Fortunately, a member of the local community was also there in the park and called the police.”

Rabbi Chapper had previously been a minister at the Ilford Federation Synagogue.

Mrs Chapper wrote in a community forum on Facebook: “Thank you everyone for all your concern. The boys are ok and the police and CST are dealing with it.

“I would like to point out that a local 11 year old boy came over and told the older boys to leave my sons alone, he was very brave to do that and he also hung around to speak to police.”

A spokesperson for Hertfordshire police said: “Officers are investigating a racially aggravated incident that occurred in Aberford Park, Borehamwood, on Sunday, May 7.

“A 14 year-old boy’s skull-cap was knocked off his head and he was kicked in his leg. During the incident racially aggravated comments were also made to a 12 year-old boy.

“Inquiries are on-going and anyone with information is asked to contact Hertfordshire Constabulary via the non-emergency number 101, quoting the crime reference J1/17/1946.”

Chief Inspector Steve O’Keeffe said: “This type of incident is uncommon in Hertsmere but never the less taken very seriously.

“A prompt response by police offices resulted in an arrest and the matter is still under investigation. My message is clear - any type of hate crime will not be tolerated in Hertsmere.”