A GANG of youths formed a blockade across a road to stop a scooter and then punched the teenage rider off the vehicle before escaping with it.

Police are now appealing for anyone who may be able to help them with their inquiries concerning this incident to contact them.

The 18-year-old victim was riding his scooter along Sutton Heath Road at about 6.45pm on Sunday, December 3, when the gang of teenagers stepped out in front of him.

He stopped his scooter and then one of the mob walked up to him and started asking him questions before suddenly punching him in the face through his visor. As the victim tried to keep his balance a second youth (thought to be about 13 or 14 years of age) kicked him in the chest, knocking him off his scooter and on to the floor. A third member of the gang then got on the brand new X-registered scooter, valued at £2,000, and rode off with the rest of the gang following.

The victim managed to stop a passing police car soon afterwards. The officers searched the area, but were unable to find any trace of the scooter, or the gang.

The youth who punched the victim is described as white, 18-19 years, with a very spotty face. He was wearing a beige jacket.

Anyone who may be able to help the police with their inquiries regarding this incident can contact DC Mal Van Schaick on 0151 777 6064, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.