A GANG punched, kicked and bit a man while trying to steal his car keys.

The victim was walking in Mortimer Gardens, Colchester, at 2.45am on Thursday when he was approached by the three-man group who demanded he hand over money.

They then launched an attack and tried to steal his car keys before fleeing empty handed.

The victim suffered cuts to his head and face and is now recovering at home and was treated by paramedics.

Detectives are investigating the attempted robbery and area appealing to the public for help.

Investigating officer Det Con Tim Harris of Colchester CID said he especially wanted to speak to two women who were at the scene when police arrived.

He said: "We are keen to hear from anyone who may have seen this attack or anyone in the area acting suspiciously in the moments leading up to the attack.

"We are also keen to hear from two women who were at the scene when officers arrived and directed them to the injured man.

"They may hold vital evidence and we would like to speak to them.”

Two of the men are described as white and the third man was  black. One of the white men was around 6ft tall and described as being of large build.

Witnesses to the attack can contact detectives at Colchester CID on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.