Thirteen-year-old Michael Dale was brutally attacked by another teenager over £30 and a packet of cigarettes.

Michael suffered a fractured cheek bone, a black eye, cuts and bruises, concussion and a gash to his head after he was kicked and punched in the face and head.

The attack happened outside the Co-op store in Milton Regis High Street sometime before 10pm on Sunday night.

Just moments earlier Michael and a group of his friends had been sitting in Milton Regis Recreation Ground when his attacker approached them and demanded money and cigarettes.

When they refused to give him the items the boy snatched £30 cash and a packet of cigarettes from Michael’s hand before walking over to the Co-op. Michael followed and asked for the items back.

A scuffle broke out between the two boys and Michael managed to retrieve the items but before he knew it he was set upon by the other boy.

Bloodied Michael was taken back to his home in Glenbrook Grove by two friends.

Michael’s mum Hester Doran said: “When I saw him I just thought this is my baby, how can someone do this to him.

"I was shocked and devastated - I still am even now. I haven’t been able to sleep properly since the attack. I just keep picturing this animal kicking and punching him.

“When we took him to Medway Maritime Hospital he couldn’t even tell the doctor who he was or where he was.

“I walked to the shop to get some bits the other day and saw Michael’s blood up the wall next to the Co-op - it made me feel sick.

“I’m just grateful - it was awful but it could have been a lot worse.”

Michael, who was due return to The Westlands School in Sittingbourne, on Monday , is recovering at home.

He said: “It took me by surprise. I put my hand up to try and protect myself but he still got through. I’m just really angry about it.”

Kent Police are investigating and anyone with any information is asked to contact Sittingbourne Crime Unit on 01795 419182 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.