A MAN was punched as he got on a bus by a gang of vicious thugs.

Police have launched a probe after the attack on the 20-year-old man in Rayleigh High Street.

The incident happened at around 1.50pm on Tuesday. The victim was hit in the back of the head as he boarded a First bus.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "Shortly before the incident, four men aged about 18 or 19, had approached him and were verbally aggressive.

"They ran off down the High Street towards Crown Hill after the man was assaulted.

"They were all described as white. One was about 6ft tall, with blond slicked back hair.

"He was not wearing a top and had a tattoo on his chest.

"We are continuing to carry out enquiries, including reviewing CCTV."

Anyone who saw anything or has any information that could help should call the Rayleigh policing team on 101 quoting reference 42/79176/20.

Alternatively, contact the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111 or use the anonymous online form at crimestoppers-uk.org.