A YORK teenager lay helpless on the floor as four youths punched and kicked him - then stole his mobile phone.

The 17-year-old was attacked in Hambleton Lane, Osbaldwick, when his attackers pushed him from his bike.

Police said four white teenagers, aged between 14 and 17, then viciously punched and kicked the victim while he was defenceless on the ground. The gang made off with a Nokia mobile phone leaving their victim with a broken hand.

Investigating officers now want to speak to anyone with information about the attack. They particularly want to contact two men who helped the injured teenager after Friday's robbery, which happened between 4.45 and 5.15pm.

Updated: 10:00 Monday, October 25, 2004