AN 18-YEAR-OLD was punched in the face and robbed of his phone by a gang of six or seven attackers in Bournemouth Gardens.

The man was smoking outside the Halo club off the Square when he was approached between 1am and 2am on Saturday, August 10.

The men encouraged him to go with them to the gardens, where he was robbed.

Detective Constable Jo Shewbridge, of Bournemouth CID, said: “This frightening incident left the victim shocked and distressed and it was fortunate that he was not injured.

“I am appealing for witnesses and anyone with information about the men responsible to contact the police.”

The men are described as white except for one who is believed to be of North African appearance. All were aged 18-22 and two had blond hair.

DC Shewbridge added: “I urge anyone who saw this group of men around the area of the café near to the balloon, at the time of the robbery, to come forward.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police on 101 quoting incident number 10:275 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.