A father is urging people to donate to homeless charities rather than give money directly to beggars after his son was allegedly repeatedly attacked by a group of homeless men.

Robert Carmoody says his son, Billy, has been bullied by a group of beggars and has been assaulted on three separate occasions.

He said: “My son Billy is a very fragile boy who suffers with mental health [issues] and anxiety.

“However, he works one day a week in the kitchens of the Gap project.”

Mr Carmoody said Billy had been repeatedly bullied by beggars demanding money.

He said the latest assault left himself and Billy requiring hospital treatment, with Billy needing four stitches to a facial wound.

He said: “On Sunday, September 24, me and Billy were walking along Victoria Parade in Broadstairs.

“We were attacked and threatened with a knife. We spent six hours in A&E and Billy had four stitches to a facial wound he received during the attack.”

Police were called to the incident but no arrests have been made.

"Please help us end this thuggery and intimidation of individuals and business owners that has become part of this lovely town" - Wording on leaflet distributed by Robert Carmoody

A spokesman said: “Police was called at 5.12pm on Sunday, September 24, to a report of two men being assaulted by three other men on Western Esplanade, Broadstairs.

“The two victims required hospital treatment for facial cuts and bruises.

“No arrests have been made but inquiries are ongoing.”

Since then, Robert has distributed leaflets encouraging people not to give directly to beggars.

The leaflet reads: “Begging is illegal. Please do not give money directly to beggars.

“Please help us end this thuggery and intimidation of individuals and business owners that has become part of this lovely town.

“End street begging and bullying in Broadstairs today.

“There are many good charities that help the homeless such at the Gap project, Porchlight, Shelter and others.

“If you wish to help the genuine homeless people please donate to a bonafide charity directly.”