A GANG of seven men forced their way into a flat and beat the householder with sticks.

The intruders left their 22-year-old victim with cuts to the head before escaping with a wallet and a moneybox.

The incident happened at about 10.45pm on Friday, July 18 in Sunderland when members of the gang, all wearing dark clothing, forced their way into the flat in Princess Street.

Afterwards, the victim ran to a nearby pub to call for help but his attackers made off before the arrival of police.

The injured man went to hospital for treatment and was later released.

Anyone with information is asked to ring Northumbria Police on 101, extension 69191, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.