POLICE are hunting four youths who attacked and tried to rob a man in Littlemoor.

The 47-year-old local man was walking in the area of Beverley Road when a group of four young men approached him.

One of the men in the group demanded money and a mobile phone before attacking the victim who resisted and managed to escape.

Fortunately, none of his property was stolen but he sustained injuries including a broken rib.

The main offender has been described as white, in his late teens, of slim build and 5ft 9in inches tall with a grade one to two haircut.

He was wearing a grey hooded top, dark blue jeans and new looking white trainers. This youth may have sustained a facial injury.

One of the other members of the group was wearing a pair of fluorescent green trainers.

Detective Constable Nick Lavery, of Weymouth CID, said: “This was a nasty attack on a man while he was walking alone.

“I urge anyone who witnessed this attempted robbery at approximately 12.30am on Sunday January 5, and anyone with information about men matching the description to call Dorset Police in confidence as soon as possible.”

One Littlemoor resident, who did not wish to be named, said she would back the police witness appeal.

She added: “Littlemoor is a nice community to live in despite rumours, I have always felt safe.”

Another Littlemoor resident, who also wished to remain anonymous, added: “Things like this do not happen very often around here; but if anyone saw anything please do come forward and help.”

No arrests have been made.

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101, quoting incident number 05:140. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.

Hopes it is an ‘isolated incident’

Councillor for Littlemoor Mark Tewkesbury said he was ‘very shocked’ to hear of the incident.

He added: “Littlemoor has been fairly quiet recently in terms of crime so I was surprised to hear of this attack.

“I hope it is an isolated incident and that anyone with information who may be able to help police with their enquiries will come forward.”