YOUTHS armed with a knife left an Orpington boy bruised and with a broken nose.

The 14-year-old was walking on Tugmutton Common to Starts Hill Road when he realised he was being followed.

A youth, aged about 16, asked him for the time, then produced a small knife and asked for his mobile phone.

The victim tried to stop his attacker checking his pockets, and was punched in the face by the hand containing the knife.

Police are appealing for witnesses. The attacker was a white male, wearing a white hooded jacket. He was accompanied by two other youths, both aged about 16.

Anyone with information should call PC Michael Grimshaw on 020 8284 8966.

November 20, 2001 12:30