A 13-year-old boy has been hospitalised after suffering a head injury during a violent bike theft in Swindon’s Penhill area earlier this afternoon.

Wiltshire Police confirmed that officers were called to Charlton Close at around 1.30pm on Tuesday (May 27) following reports that the teenager had been struck on the head with a hammer. The boy’s black Carrera bicycle with distinctive red handlebars and pedals was then stolen.

The victim was quickly taken to hospital where he is being treated for head injuries. His condition has not yet been disclosed.

Police have released descriptions of two suspects in connection with the assault and theft:

• The first suspect is described as a white male in his 40s, with a ginger beard, wearing a black puffer jacket.

• The second male, believed to be in his 20s, has blonde hair and was wearing a dark-coloured tracksuit.

A Wiltshire Police spokesperson said:

“This was a cowardly and violent attack on a child in broad daylight. We are urgently appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or seen these individuals in the area to come forward.”

Police have also shared an image of the stolen Carrera bike, urging anyone who spots the bicycle or knows of its whereabouts to get in touch.

Anyone with information is urged to call Wiltshire Police on 101, quoting log number 133 of 27/05. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be submitted via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.