A BOY was held at knifepoint while balaclava-clad thieves stole his phone.

The 13-year-old was robbed at knifepoint in the Cowbridge area of Billingham at about 7.45am on Monday, January 21.

Three men wearing dark clothing and balaclavas approached the victim, who was sitting with his 13-year-old female friend.

Two of the men had knives and they threatened the victim, and stole his Samsung mobile, heading off in the direction of Warkworth Road.

The victim was physically uninjured during the incident.

One of the men is described as being six feet tall, with a local accent and wearing dark clothing.

Anyone with information regarding the men responsible is asked to contact DC Lee Busby from Cleveland Police on 101 quoting event number 012045. Crimestoppers anonymously can be contacted on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org.