A MAN was attacked by a gang of seven who wanted to steal his bike.

The 20-year-old fought off his attackers and fled to a petrol station following the incident in Central Avenue, Canvey.

He was riding along when he was approached by the gang who pushed him off the bike and tried to grab it.

But the cyclist managed to pull it back, and fled with it towards Somnes Avenue.

He was chased by the gang, but managed to seek refuge in a nearby Texaco petrol station, from where he called the police.

He escaped with minor injuries.

A worker at the garage, who watched the incident on CCTV afterwards, described how the gang steamed on to the forecourt in pursuit of the cyclist.

The worker, who did not want to be named, said: “The CCTV showed a man running into the petrol station.

“A group of boys entered the forecourt shortly afterwards, but after waiting a while turned around and ran off. I think they saw the victim using the phone in the shop, and knew the police would be on their way.”

The gang members are described as African Carib-bean, and ranging in age from 18 to 25.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the assault to come forward.

PC Rob Walker, leading the hunt for the men, said: “The incident occurred in a busy road, and given the number of people involved there is a strong chance passing drivers may have seen what was happening without realising the seriousness of the situation.

“The victim was heavily outnumbered in what was an unprovoked assault, but fortunately he had the presence of mind to seek sanctuary at the service station, otherwise we might be dealing with something far more serious.

“I would urge anyone who has any information about the incident, however insignificant it may seem to them, to contact police.”

Witnesses to the incident, which happened at 8.50pm on Wednesday, December 2, can call PC Walker at Southend police station on 0300 3334444.

Alternatively, call Crime-stoppers anonymously on 0800 5551111.