A MAN was beaten up and robbed of his mobile phone at the weekend.

The incident took place near the Tap and Spile pub, in Bondgate, Darlington at about 10.30pm on Friday, when the 21-year-old victim, from Darlington, was approached by two males.

Sergeant Alison Jackson, of Darlington police, said: "They walked up to him, headbutted him and while he was on the ground they kicked him.

"They stole his £200 Sony Erikson mobile phone and left him with swelling to his face and head, as well as bruising."

It is the latest in a series of phone muggings in the town.

Last month, officers warned people to keep their handsets out of sight after a knife was used in one robbery.

The muggings often take place at weekends and the thieves appear to target people who are on their way home after a night out.

One of the attackers is described as white, aged 17 to 21, 5ft 10in, thin, with average length mousey or dark hair. He has a narrow face with wispy facial hair.

He was wearing a dark and light blue baseball cap and a blue waterproof coat.

A second male is described as aged about 16, about 5ft 7ins, of medium build with short dark or black gelled hair. He was also wearing a blue waterproof coat.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Darlington police on (01325) 467681.