A man was punched in the face before he was robbed by a group of three men.

The group asked the 36-year-old victim, who was walking along Chandlers Way, Romford, for directions to South Street before all three suspects assaulted him on Thursday at about 4.45pm.

The men then took the victim’s mobile phone and laptop before leaving the scene at the road’s junction with Slaney Road.

The victim was then assisted by a woman in the street straight after the attack, which left him needing treatment for cuts and bruises to his face.

Det Con Tara Wilson said: “This was a particularly nasty attack resulting in significant facial injuries for the victim.

“This was a busy time of day and it is likely that people on passing buses or footpaths witnessed this incident.”

The first suspect is described as a white male, about 20-years-old, 6ft tall, of slim build, with an untidy beard. The man was wearing a red Superdry woolen hat with a red bobble on top, a dark puffer jacket and spoke with a local accent.

The second suspect is decribed as a white male with dark shaved hair, a full face and was sporting a thin moustache.

The third suspect is described as a white male, about 20-years-old, 5ft 9in tall and was wearing dark clothes.

Det Con Wilson said: “I would be particularly interested to speak with the woman who assisted the victim directly following the assault.”

Police are urging anyone who has any information about the incident and the suspects to call Havering CID on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.