A TEENAGER was brutally beaten and told to hand over his phone after being attacked by a gang.

The incident happened at the junction of Smitham Bridge Road and Marsh Lane in Hungerford at around 6.30pm on March 6.

The victim, described as a 'vulnerable' 16-year-old boy, was approached by four people and was punched and kicked.

He was able to escape and reported the incident to a member of the public at St Lawrence’s Church.

Investigating officers are keen to speak with a woman, who was walking her dog in the area at the time.

The victim sustained minor injuries, but did not require hospital treatment and he managed to avoid handing over his phone.

Police constable Mark Harris, based at Newbury police station, said: “I am appealing for witnesses following this incident to come forward.

“In particular, I would like to hear from the woman who was walking a dog along Smitham Bridge Road at the time of the incident, as she may information vital to our investigation.

“Anyone who has information about this incident can report the details on the Thames Valley Police website quoting reference 43190070271.

"Alternatively, you can call the non-emergency telephone number, 101, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

The first offender, who assaulted the victim, is described as male, approximately 6ft 4ins and of slim build.

He was wearing dark clothing with his face covered and spoke with a deep voice using slang language.

The second offender is a male around 17-years-old, approximately 6ft 1in tall of stocky build with short brown hair and a stubble beard.

He was wearing dark clothing with a face covering.

The third and fourth offenders are described as also wearing dark clothing with their faces covered.