POLICE are trying to track down a gang who attempted to rob a teenager, punching him in the face several times.

The 18-year-old was cycling home along the motorway bridge on St John's Road, Hedge End at 10.15pm on Friday when he was approached by six to eight men.

They grabbed his arm and punched him in the face several times before trying to search his pockets and grab his bike.

However he managed to break free and fled without anything being stolen.

All of the gang were dressed in dark clothing.

Police Staff Investigatore Claire Linton said: “We are asking people if they recognise anyone in the CCTV images. We appreciate that the CCTV is not that clear but I believe that someone will recognise the group and could assist in identifying them.

“At this time of night it wasn’t busy but there are a number of vehicles on the road, some other cyclists and runners. So we are asking if any of these people saw or heard anything?”

Anyone who saw what happens or recognises the men from the two CCTV images released by the police should contact the force on 101, quoting reference 44160055506.