A SCHOOLBOY has been beaten by two youths who stole his mobile phone.

The 11-year-old had just got off a bus near his Darlington home when the thugs - one wearing sunglasses - rode up on bikes and began their assault.

The incident happened on Friday, at 9.25pm, at the entrance to Hartlea Avenue, on the A167 at Beaumont Hill.

After getting off the bus, which had brought him from the Rise Carr area, the victim crossed the road and was heading home when the first youth rode up to him from behind on a silver BMX bike.

He attacked the youngster with a blow from behind, which caused him to get into a crouching position.

The attacker then leapt from his bike and punched the boy in the face. He fell to the ground, suffering bruising to the face and lips.

As he was lying on the floor, he felt the attackers search through his pockets, and take a Nokia 3310 mobile phone and a small amount of cash.

The two cyclists then rode off along the A167 in the direction of Newton Aycliffe.

The first attacker is thought to be aged about 15, 5ft 4in, of thin build, with dark hair. He was wearing a dark jacket and sunglasses.

His accomplice was about the same age, about 5ft 2in, also of thin build and wearing a white or cream jacket. It is believed he was riding a mountain bike.

Anybody who has any information is asked to contact either Darlington police on (01325) 467681, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.