A GANG demanded property from three teenage lads and punched one before stealing cash, wallets and other goods.

The victims, aged 13, 14, and 15, had got off a bus in Market Street in the centre of Whitworth at 5pm on Friday and were walking home when they were approached by the three older teenagers.

They demanded property from the 14-year-old and when he refused he was punched to the side of his face and body until he handed over his wallet containing £7 and a video he had just bought worth £23.

The other two lads were threatened with violence and they handed over their property.

The 15-year-old gave them his wallet and £25 cash and the 16-year-old gave them 35p -- all the money he had.

The first offender was white, aged 16, medium build, 5ft 8ins with dark hair shaved at the sides and longer on top with a pale complexion, spots and protruding lips. He was wearing a navy blue Nike hooded top.

Both accomplices were of mixed race one has short dark hair, 5ft 10ins, aged 16, and of slim build. The third was 5ft 7ins, aged 15, wearing cream tracksuit bottoms and a dark top.

If anyone was in the area at the time or knows the identity of the gang they should contact Rossendale CID on 01706 237442.