A 38-YEAR-OLD man was left with severe facial injuries and a suspected broken hip after being robbed by a gang.

The victim was punched to the floor and then kicked before having his wallet and mobile phone stolen. A group of teenagers wearing hoodies and dark clothing were seen attacking the man.

On Thursday night police were questioning four local men in connection with the violent assault.

They were arrested not far from the scene after a quick response from officers.

The victim is still being treated for his injuries at the Great Western Hospital.

The man was attacked at about 11.15pm on Wednesday in the Granville Street car park, in the town centre.

Police have appealed for any witnesses to come forward.

"As a result of this attack he sustained severe facial injuries and is currently undergoing hospital treatment," Insp Mike Patterson, of Swindon police, said.

"The full extent of his injuries are not yet established."

Insp Patterson added: "Swindon police responded immediately to the incident and as a result four males were arrested nearby on suspicion of robbery and are currently in custody at Gablecross police station where they will be interviewed."

Last week the Adver reported on the latest crime figures for Wiltshire which showed violent crime had gone up by 16 per cent in the last year.

The British Crime Survey figures showed the number of violent offences for 2006/2007 was 9,614 but 55 per cent of those surveyed said the police in Wiltshire were doing an excellent of good job.

The figures also showed that the fear of crime is on the up. The fear of violent crime in Wiltshire rose by 12 per cent from last year.

Anyone with information on the robbery should call Swindon CID on 0845 4087000 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.