A BMX bike rider has suffered serious injuries after being attacked by a gang in a Basingstoke underpass.

Police officers in the town are appealing for witnesses following the incident in the underpass leading from Whistler Close, Black Dam, to War Memorial Park, at around 7.30pm yesterday.

The 24-year-old victim was approached by a gang of about six or seven men, all in their late teens or early 20s.

One member of the group attacked the man causing him to fall off his bike.

He was then kicked in the head before managing to get back on his bike and ride away from his attackers.

He suffered serious injuries to his face, including a fractured cheek bone, and was treated at Basingstoke hospital before going home to recover.

One member of the gang is described as white, in his early 20s, about 5ft 10in tall, of a medium muscular build with short light brown hair and was wearing a blue jumper and black trousers.

Another is described as black, in his late teens or early 20s with his hair styled in several tight plaits across his head.

He was shorter and of a smaller build, wearing black trousers and black jumper.

Detective Constable Donna Free of the Northern Investigations Team said: “I am appealing to anyone who saw a group of men in and around this area yesterday evening. Or if anyone knows of a group of men that are known to be in this area often.

"I want to reassure the public that this is a rare occurrence; however the incident has left the victim with serious injuries to his face. If you think you can help identify these men, please get in contact immediately on 101 quoting 44150343914.”