A CYCLIST was clubbed with by four hooded men during an attack in west Oxfordshire.

But despite their attempt to take his bike, the victim fought back and managed to defend himself.

The 42-year-old man was attacked at about 8.30pm when he was riding through Church View in Carterton on Saturday. When he entered the alleyway he was hit with an object between 4ft and 5ft long, which was possibly a metal pole or wooden bar.

He fell off his bike and saw the four men come towards him.

During a struggle he managed to hit one the men several times in the face.

The victim then hit a second man, and noticed the other two were stealing his bike.

He followed them and pushed one of them into a fence and demanded his bike back.

One of the robbers, who still had hold of the bike, then threw it back in the direction of the victim, who pushed the man and then escaped on his bike.

He suffered bruised ribs as a result of the attack, but did not need hospital treatment.

All four robbers were described as slim white men in their late teens or early 20s.

Police are appealing for witnesses.

Anyone with information is asked to call 101.