A SIXTY-one-year-old man was today (Friday) recovering in hospital after he was brutally beaten up by a gang of youths.

The victim was walking near Reading Bridge at around 11pm on Wednesday when he was stopped by a group of young thugs.

His attackers, described by police as a group of youths, beat him to the ground and caused him to suffer a severe eye injury.

The man was rushed to hospital for treatment, where he remained today (Friday).

A spokesman for Thames Valley Police said: "The incident occurred on Wednesday at about 11pm near Reading Bridge, along the promenade next to the river.

"The victim, a 61-year-old man, was walking from the train station towards Caversham.

"He was approached and assaulted by a group of youths, and sustained a serious eye injury as a result."

One of the offenders was described as a mixed race boy, aged around 16 years old.

Another was described as a black male who was riding a bicycle.

Detective constable Robert Simpson-Jones urged anyone with information to contact Thames Valley Police immediately.

He added: "This incident has left the victim with a serious eye injury which has required him to have treatment in hospital.

"I would like to speak to anyone who witnessed it, or who has any details which could help our investigation.

"If you were in the area at the time, and saw a group of youths, some of whom may have been on pushbikes, please call the Thames Valley Police non-emergency number on 101."