A 14-year-old schoolboy suffered facial injuries during a “nasty” assault near a Bradford park.

Police investigators say the teenager and a 17-year-old friend were walking home close to Roberts Park at Saltaire when they were targeted by two older youths in a robbery bid.

The victims were approached just off Higher Coach Road near the entrance to the park by the two older teenagers who demanded money.

The pair ignored the request and walked on but were grabbed from behind and assaulted.

The 17-year-old was pulled to the ground but managed to fight off his attacker and flee.

His younger friend was punched and knocked to the ground where he was searched.

The suspects fled shortly afterwards without taking any property but leaving the 14-year-old with bruises to his face.

He was taken to Bradford Royal Infirmary as a precaution but was discharged later.

Police are anxious to trace witnesses to the incident, which happened between 8.15pm and 8.30pm on Tuesday.

Acting Detective Inspector Stuart Lyons, of Airedale and North Bradford CID, said: “This was a nasty assault on two teenagers making their way home and I would ask anyone who saw what happened, or has information, to contact us.”

The first suspect is described as being aged 19 or 20, of medium build, 5ft 8in and wearing a blue top with the hood up and black tracksuit bottoms.

The second offender was aged 18 to 20, also of medium build, 5ft 10in, and was wearing a hooded top with the hood up and black tracksuit bottoms.

Anyone who can help the inquiry should contact Airedale and North Bradford CID, on the 101 non-emergency number, or Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555111.