THREE thugs attacked a man after he fled when they tried to rob his mobile phone.

The victim was approached at Fairfax Drive junction with Northview Drive in Westcliff when they demanded the phone, but did not get the phone.

He ran but they caught him and punched and kicked him.

Investigating officer, Dc Mark Sawyer said: "The injuries could have been worse if it wasn’t for his own family hearing his cries for help. I am keen to speak with anyone who was in the area at the time at 12.40am on Friday, March 1.”

The suspects are described as white, aged 17 to 19, around 5ft 11ins tall. One was of average build wearing a brown Adidas hoodie, the other was stocky with short or shaven hair, wearing a black Adidas zip up hoodie.

Anyone with information should call Dc Sawyer on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.