POLICE are appealing for witnesses to a violent gang attack in which a 15-year-old boy was brutally kicked while he lay helpless on the ground.

The victim and another boy, 18, were walking along Snakes Lane West in Woodford Green at around 6:45pm on Saturday January 23.

They were approached by the gang of between 15 and 20 males wearing balaclavas and scarves.

The gang chased the pair, before catching up with the younger boy and demanding that he hand over his mobile phone.

He was then pushed to the floor and kicked several times, before the attacker or attackers fled the scene in an unknown direction.

Anyone with information should contact TDC Charmaine John at Redbridge Robbery Squad on 020 8345 2610.