A GANG of schoolboys who carried out a sickening attack on an elderly man, filmed it and shared the clip on social media.

The boys, dressed in their blazers, appear to be attacking the 66-year-old man while being egged on by one of their friends.

The cowardly attack in Birtley, near Chester-le-Street, earlier this week, ends when they realise blood is pouring down the victim’s face.

The man was left needing treatment at hospital.

The video, which has been shared widely on Facebook, has caused revulsion in the community.

Jessica Godsmark said: “Absolute little scum bags!!!! Their parents must be so proud. Doing this to an elderly person is the lowest of the low.”

Catrina Wallwork said: “This is absolutely vile, poor old man. Makes me feel physically sick.... absolutely disgusting.... animals.”

Read more: Ambulance patients faced SIX HOUR wait for treatment

An online fundraiser to help the victim of the attack has now been set up.

Organiser Emma Curry wrote: “As most people are aware by now an elderly man was attacked by three school children on Wednesday afternoon. The man was left with shocking injuries as a result of the attack.

“Most people who have saw the video have been sickened and are in shock that kids of Birtley could be so vile.

“No-one deserves this and I would hate to think that, that poor man will never be able to trust anyone walking towards him again.

“If you are able to give a small gesture to show your kindness and love and to prove there’s only a small minority of evilness in the area please do so if you can.”

Northumbria Police has confirmed a criminal investigation is now underway.

A force spokesperson said: “Shortly before 7.50pm Wednesday October 6, police received a report of an assault.

“It was reported that three males had assaulted an elderly man in an apparent unprovoked attack and shared a recording of this on social media. An investigation was immediately launched. The victim is being supported by officers and enquires are on-going.

“We would ask that anyone who sees the video does not share this any further, and that anyone with information about this incident, or those involved contact police immediately by calling 101 or using the Tell us Something page.”

To support the fundraiser click here

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