A gang of vandals left a man with a broken leg and cuts to his face after he spotted them damaging cars.

The 44-year-old man was in Margaret Road, Headington, in Oxford, at about 12.20am on Saturday when he saw a gang of youths damaging four cars Some of the gang attacked him and began hitting him in the face.

He was taken to hospital with cuts and a broken leg.

Dc Charlotte Eden, investigating the assault, said: "This was an unprovoked attack and has left the man with serious injuries.

"I would like to thank the residents of Margaret Road for their prompt actions in calling the police so that officers could attend quickly.

"I ask for your help now in identifying these youths. If you saw or heard anything then please contact us or Crimestoppers.

"The large group of youths walked from St Leonard's Road and along Wharton Road before making their way into Margaret Road. Maybe you saw them and could help identify them."

Any witnesses or anyone with information should contact police on 08458 505505 or speak anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

An 18-year-old man arrested on suspicion of GBH has been released on bail.