Police are appealing for witnesses after a man was attacked and robbed in Christ Church Meadow, Oxford.

The 20-year-old man was walking along the footpath beside the river in Christ Church Meadow, when he was approached by three men who demanded he hand over his money.

Before he had the chance to do this he was assaulted, sustaining injuries to his face and head.

The men then stole the victim’s mobile phone, camera and money before running away from the scene.

The robbery happened at about 6.40pm on Sunday, August 8, but details were only released today.

The men are described as white and all in their mid-twenties. The main offender was of thin build, about 6ft 1in with light blond hair. He was wearing a thick dark-coloured jumper and spoke with an English accent.

The second man was about 5ft 7in to 5ft 10in tall, tanned, with a slim to medium build, short cropped dark hair. He was unshaven and described as having very dirty hands and nails. He was wearing a dark blue T-shirt and possibly and diamond-style earring in his left ear.

The third man was about 5ft 7in tall, slim build, and was wearing a T-shirt with a sleeveless jacket.

PC Dave Rogers said: “This is a nasty incident that has left the victim badly shaken and was witnessed by passers-by who were also distressed by what they saw.

“People should feel safe walking around the city as this does appear to be an isolated incident.

“I would urge anyone with information about this incident to come forward and speak to me as soon as possible. This type of behaviour will not be tolerated.”

Anyone with information should PC Rogers via the 24-hour Thames Valley Police Enquiry Line on 0845 8 505 505. Alternatively, you can contact the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.