A YOUNG man has had a thumb amputated following a “horrific” attack in Rainham at the weekend.

The 23-year-old was set upon by four youths after he refused to let them into a family party in Frederick Road, at around 4.30am on Saturday (December 11).

The attackers, white boys aged between 15 and 17-years-old, chased the victim when he tried to stop them entering through a back garden gate. He was pounced upon in nearby Askwith Road and savagely beaten with sticks and a baseball bat.

The attackers, one described as having distinctive blond hair and wearing a black jacket with a red hooded top, ran into New Road and escaped in the direction of Dagenham.

The victim, who police have not named, was taken to an east London hospital with injuries to his head as well as both thumbs - one of which had to be removed by surgeons.

DC Clare Tonkins, from Havering Police, said: “This as a horrific attack on a young male that will affect him for the rest of his life.

“We are currently reviewing numerous CCTV recordings and undertaking forensic investigations but if anyone has information relating to the incident, or recognises the descriptions of the suspects, please contact me at Romford Police Station on: 0300 123 1212 or anonymously via crime stoppers on: 0800 555 111.”

The victim remains in a stable condition in hospital.