A TEENAGER had his phone and bank cards stolen after being attacked by a gang.

Thames Valley Police appealed for witnesses to come forward after two attacks took place on the same evening, which officers believe may be linked.

In the first incident, a 17-year-old boy was walking through Christchurch Meadows at 11.15pm on October 4 when he was approached by seven people.

One of the group asked for a lighter and when he said he did not have one he was punched, causing him to fall to the ground.

He was then kicked while he was injured on the floor, giving offenders the chance to steal various items.

The offender is described as a boy of mixed race, around 5ft 7ins, of slim build and aged in his late teens. He was wearing a grey tracksuit at the time of the incident.

They grabbed his mobile phone, bank cards, driving licence and keys before fleeing the scene.

At around 11.30pm on the same evening, a 48-year-old man was cycling along Patrick Road next to Christchurch Meadows.

He was approached by a group of approximately 10 people and pushed from his bicycle.

No property was stolen during the second incident.

Both victims suffered minor injuries, but they did not require hospital treatment.

Investigating officer, Claire Shoesmith, based at Reading police station, said: “These incidents were unprovoked and the victims have been left shaken.

“I am appealing for members of the public, who may have seen these incidents to please come forward to help with our investigation.

“We believe these incidents are linked.

“Anyone with information should contact the Thames Valley Police non-emergency telephone number, on 101, quoting reference 43180303771 for the first incident and 43180303760 for the second incident.

“You can also report information online or you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”