POLICE are hunting a gang of thugs who viciously attacked a motorist in Hampshire.

The 26-year-old driver from Hedge End received a fractured jaw with other facial injuries and even lost consciousness during the beating.

The victim was driving along High Street in West End when he was forced to slow down as a youth on a BMX rode in front of his car After stopping the car, a group of six other youths started kicking the vehicle.

It was when the driver, who was travelling with his girlfriend, got out of the car that he was first punched in the face by one of the thugs.

Getting back into the vehicle, the victim was forced to stop again at the junction of High Street and Chapel Road, where he was subjected to a second and more violent assault from the gang.

Police are now appealing for witnesses who may have seen the attacks or have any information to get in touch.

One of the youths has been described as a black teenager aged 12 to 16.

Another is described as a white teenager aged 15 to 16, with facial hair and who was wearing a black zipped hooded top with grey coloured sections.

Anyone who may have any information is asked to contact Hedge End police station on 0845 045 4545 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.