A TEENAGER was bitten on the hand when a gang of men snatched her mobile phone in Cranbrook Road, Barkingside.

The 16-year-old was on her way home with a 17-year-old friend when three men approached them just after 10pm on Saturday.

While talking to the men, one of the girl's mobiles rang. As she answered the call, one of them tried to grab it. She struggled with him but was forced to let go when he bit her hand.

During the incident, a second man grabbed the other girl's handbag, which contained a mobile phone and money.

The three men got away in a red Renault Clio with the items, which were worth a total of £438.

Police have described two of the robbers as black, aged 18, with one having small eyes and spots on his cheek. The other man was wearing a black woolly baseball cap.

The third member of the gang was described as Asian.

One of the victims was taken to King George Hospital for treatment to her hand.

Anyone with information should call crime management at Ilford police station on 8345 2779.