Four teens have been violently attacked and robbed at knifepoint whilst walking home from Lakeside.

The fifteen year old boy and three friends were held up in a station shelter at Chafford Hundred station after returning from a shopping trip.

One boy was threatened with a knife, whilst one boy was physically attacked with his head banged against a wall.

The gang of youths made off with £500 cash from the attack, which took place on Tuesday January 5, at 7.30pm.

Police said they believed the gang of youths had deliberately tracked the young shoppers after following them home from a shopping trip at Lakeside.

Detective Constable Sally Everritt said the attack had been “frightening” for the boys involved and asked for the public’s help in tracking down the robbers.

DC Everritt said: “I would like to reassure the public that violent crime is rare on the rail network, but at the same time appeal for their assistance.

“This was a frightening experience for the boys involved and we need you to help us find those responsible.

“Images from the station have been distributed on police intelligence networks, and detectives continue to investigate.

“I believe the people in the images we are issuing today will be able to provide us with information which could assist our investigation. Please let us know if you recognise any of them.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40, or text 61016, quoting reference 142 of 26/2/16. Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.