A TEENAGER was left battered and bruised after he was attacked by three youths while he was waiting to catch a bus home.

The 17-year-old was in a shelter in Birchington Avenue, at the junction of Fabian Road, in Grangetown, near Middlesbrough, when he was assaulted on Saturday at about 9.25pm.

He was approached by three white youths, aged about 14. One of them asked if he was going to Redcar and he replied he was going to Stockton.

The youth then hit him, knocking him to the floor, where the others joined in, kicking him.

People ran to help the victim, and the youths ran off towards Bolckow Road.

The teenager was taken to The James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough, for treatment of facial injuries and cuts and grazes to his arms, legs and hip.

Officers have spoken to a number of witnesses, but want to speak to anyone else who saw what happened or who has information about the attack.

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Debbie Murphy of Cleveland Police, on 01642-326326, or call Crimestoppers, on 0800-555-111.