A Brentwood teenager was viciously assaulted and left with a fractured jaw for the sake of just a few cigarettes.

The shocking attack at Brentwood Railway Station left the 15-year-old victim needing extensive hospital treatment and police are appealing for help in tracking down her cruel attackers.

The teenager was waiting at the taxi rank outside the Warley Hill Road station when she was approached by two females, described as "afro-carribean", aged between 16 and 17.

The pair asked her for a cigarette, but when she said she did not have any they grabbed her, pinned her arms behind her back and led her to a remote part of the station's car park.

Here they pushed her to the ground and kicked her around the head causing serious injuries and eventually knocking her unconscious.

While she was unconscious the pair stole a packet of cigarettes containing six cigarettes and made off as she regained her senses.

Det Con Trudy Shephard, who is investigating the incident on behalf of British Transport Police, said: "During the attack the victim sustained a fractured jaw, two black eyes and swelling around the face.

"This was a really appalling attack."

The attack took place at around 9.40pm on Friday November 30 The girl was returning home after a trip to the cinema with friends and had just got off a Southend-bound train.

British Transport Police is still appealing to anyone who may have seen the incident to get in contact.

Any witnesses should call 0207 3915275 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

Published Monday December 17, 2001