A TEENAGER has told how his new mobile phone was stolen after he was kicked to the ground by a gang of muggers - the latest in a growing number of mobile phone muggings.

Three thugs attacked Jonathan Savidge, 19, and ran off with his BT Cellnet phone.

As reported in the BEN, police figures reveal that mobile phone thefts in Bolton have rocketed during the last year. Nearly 900 phones were taken last year in a series of street robberies, break-ins and thefts - an increase of nearly 50 per cent in 12 months.

Jonathan, of Settle Street, Great Lever, was walking up St Helens Road, Daubhill, on his way to work at Park Cakes, when he was attacked by three Asian males.

The thugs kicked him to the ground and as he fell his mobile phone, worth £50, flew out of his pocket. One of the robbers grabbed it and as the teenager tried to get to his feet he was punched in the face.

The gang then ordered him to empty his pockets. They stole two bank cards and then ran off.

Jonathan was left with a black eye and was very badly shaken.

He said: "I'm feeling dizzy now and will probably need to go to the doctors.

"I was gutted when they stole my phone, I only bought it last week."

Jonathan's mother, Martina Moran, telephoned the police when her son returned home after the mugging.

She said: "This has shocked us all. It's frightening when you think what could have happened. They could have knives and someone could have been killed. If anyone can help, please call the police. I don't want this to happen to anyone else."

Detectives in Bolton confirmed the incident had been reported to them and they were investigating. The attack took place at 9.30pm on Wednesday near Bentwoods. The three Asian men were said to be in their late teens, one wore a baseball cap and all were wearing expensive sportswear.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call Greater Manchester Police on 0161 872 5050, or Crimestoppers on freephone 0800 555 111. Kicked to the ground by a trio of muggers - Jonathan Savidge Ref: J627-35