Attacks near John Lewis, Lloyds Bank and Union Street linked

A couple were robbed outside John Lewis, a group was attacked by 15-20 teenagers at the junction with Union Street and an 18-year-old was assaulted outside Llloyds Bank.

The first incident occurred at around 10pm on Tuesday, when a man and a woman were approached by a group of men near John Lewis.

The main offender asked the victim, a man in his twenties, to open his bag and stole £50 cash from him.

A 21-year-old man from Reading was arrested on suspicion of actual bodily harm and robbery. He has been released on bail.

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Later the same day at 11.30pm, a gang of between 15 and 20 teenagers robbed and assaulted a group of six people with glass bottles at the junction with Union Street.

The six victims, also male, were approached by five men in Broad Street, who were then joined by between 10 to 15 more.

The larger group attacked the group of six and stole one man’s phone and wallet.

The view from Union Street as it joins with Broad Street

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At 2.20am on Thursday, an 18-year-old man was punched and then kicked on the floor outside Lloyds Bank.

He sustained facial injuries and bruising to the face, but he did not require hospital treatment.

Staff investigator, Chelsea Hughes, based at Reading police station, said: “Due to the location and timings of these incidents we believe they are linked.

“I am appealing to anyone who witnessed or knows anything about any of these incidents to please come forward.

“Anyone with information can contact police by calling 101 or making a report online.

“Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website.”