A BOY was robbed by three “cowardly” teens in St Albans as he made his way home from school last Tuesday (July 12).

The 11-year-old boy received minor injuries and had to be treated at St Albans City Hospital after the attack on York Road between 3.50pm and 4.10pm.

The older boys approached him, one of them grabbing him in a head lock while a second teenager, who was on a bicycle, took his PE kit.

The third teen watched and shouted encouragment to his friends before they all made off into Clarence Park.

All three offenders were described as black Afro-Caribbean and aged between 14-16. The first is described as having a bald head and was wearing a green Adidas bag and a school uniform - a black blazer and trousers. The second, who was on the bike, had a round build and was also wearing a school uniform with a purple Adidas bag. The third offender was smoking a cigarette and had thick dark hair. He was wearing a grey and red Nike backpack and school uniform - a white short-sleeved shirt and black trousers.

DC Rebecca Primrose, investigating from the Local Crime Unit, said: “This was a nasty incident where three cowardly, older boys have targeted a young boy half their size. And all they have gained for their trouble is a PE bag containing sports kit.

“The incident has left the victim very shaken and I am keen to trace those responsible.”

DC Primrose said she was particularly keen to speak to an Asian man who approached the victim immediately after the incident, acting as a good samaritan and checking if the boy was ok. He’s described as around 25 years old with black spiky hair and wearing a black leather jacket.

She would also like to hear from from a teenage boy who was seen standing on a footbridge shortly after the incident, watching the trains. He was wearing a school uniform, albeit from a different school, and looked to be between 11-13 years old.

She added: “These people could have information vital to my investigation, so I would like to encourage them to come forward, along with anyone else who may have information on this crime.”

Anyone with information should call the non-emergency number 101 and cite crime reference number F1/11/2731. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.