POLICE are appealing for witnesses following an attack and attempted robbery on a 17-year-old youth in Chatham.

It is believed the attackers were after the boy's mobile phone. He had been using it to send text messages as he walked along the street.

The victim had turned into Watson Avenue when he saw two boys coming towards him on the other side of the road. As he turned into Barberry Avenue, he heard footsteps and saw one of the youths standing behind him.

The victim turned to walk away and as he did, the youth attacked him. During the assault, the victim suffered two breaks to his right cheekbone and cuts to his eyebrow and forehead that needed stitching.

A Medway Police spokesman said: "This is a particularly vicious attack and I would urge anyone with information to contact us immediately. I would also like to stress that mobile phones should only be used in a public place during an emergency to deter this type of assault."

The first attacker is thought to be aged between 18 and 20, about 5ft 11in tall wearing a cream or white hooded top with a white scarf around his face. No description of the second youth has been issued.

The attack happened shortly before 10pm on Wednesday April 2. Anyone with information should contact police on 01634 884252 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.