A 10-year-old boy was attacked and robbed outside a North Swindon School.

The child was with a friend near Catherine Wayte School in Abbey Meads when two older old boys – one on a bike – began to chase them.

When the pair reached Hudson Way, the attackers punched one of the boys in the face before stealing his bicycle and cycling off towards Red Hill.

The incident happened between 4.45pm and 4.50pm on Monday. The victim’s bike was a gold Reebok BMX bike.

DC Sean Tregunner who is leading the case said: “This was a terrible thing to happen and quite a shock for somewhere as quiet as Abbey Meads.

“This certainly was not the start to the school holidays these boys wanted or needed. The offenders in this case picked on victims who were clearly vulnerable because of their very young age.

“Fortunately the two victims are okay but their parents are rightfully angry that something like this could happen.”

The offenders are described as two white males aged 12 to 14 years, one wearing a white t-shirt and black shorts, while the other was on a blue BMX bike which had a pink rear wheel with stunt pegs on and a blue front wheel.

“The offender’s bike is quite distinctive and I am hoping someone will recognise it from the description,” said DC Tregunner.

“I would also suggest to parents that they ask their children to be vigilant and if they do have expensive items such as bikes that they are stamped or have their details written on them in UV pen as a crime prevention measure.

“I would be grateful if anyone with any information on this incident would call me.”

Witnesses or those with information should contact DC Tregunner on 0845 408 7000. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.