A 13-YEAR-OLD boy was sprayed in the face with CS spray during a brutal robbery during which he was knocked to the ground and beaten.

Up to five people are believed to have taken part in the assault on the boy who before they stole his Sony PSP game console.

Police are urging anyone who saw the attack, which took place in Rochford on Monday, at 3.30pm, to come forward with information.

The boy was walking towards Rectory Avenue when he was attacked from behind on the footpath leading to Lincoln Road and pushed to ground.

He was then sprayed in the face with CS spray or a similar noxious substance, and hit on his leg and back with a heavy object.

His game console, worth £150, was then taken from his hands. It is thought the attackers fled up Lincoln Road and on to the footpath, running in the direction of Hockley.

The boy was taken to Southend Hospital and treated for sore eyes, and bruising to his back and legs. He is now recovering at home.

Det Sgt Caroline Venables said: “This was an unimaginably cowardly assault on a young boy minding his own business.

“The unnecessary violence involved makes it especially important that we trace the people involved as soon as possible.

“I would like to hear from anyone who may have seen a group anywhere from Rectory Avenue to Broadlands Avenue between 3.15pm and 4pm in the afternoon.

“They may have been seen running away, or simply hanging around in the vicinity.”

Anyone with information about the attack should contact Det Sgt Venables on 0300 3334444, extension 34126, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.