POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a man was assaulted when a gang of youths tried to rob him.

The 49-year-old man was walking home from Birchwood railway station along Brock Road at 11pm on Friday, August 29.

Around five people approached him when he got to the Birchwood Park footpath, near the health centre.

He was verbally abused and physically assaulted, resulting in grazes to his head.

The group then attempted to steal the victim's briefcase.

One of the attackers is described as a white man, aged around 18, about 5ft 10ins, of slim build and was wearing a grey tracksuit, with the hood up over his head, at the time of the incident.

The victim was wearing a blue suit and carrying a black briefcase.

Anyone with information is asked to call DC Mark Rowan on 01244 350 000.