A cyclist was knocked off his bike and beaten by a gang of youth near the canal towpath in Dewsbury.

The male victim identified was riding alongside the Calder and Hebble navigation between the hours of 7pm and 9:30pm.

When we arrived back to Millbank Lock he was confronted by 6-8 men.

One of the gang members, knocked the cyclist off his bike and started attacking him whilst the another tried to steal his bike.

The cyclist was able to fend for himself despite the onslaught and returned to his home later visiting the hospital for treatment to his facial injuries.

DC Liam Rye of West Yorkshire Police has said, “This was a nasty cowardly assault by a group of eight males on a lone victim who was out exercising”.

“we are investigating and would like to speak to any witnesses who may have seen or heard the incident occur”.

Anyone who does have information has been requested to contact Kirklees CID on 101 referring to the crime reference number 13200225242.