A ROBBER estimated to be aged just 17 'hugged' his victim before biting a chunk of skin off his cheek.

The teenager worked in tandem with another to pin a 19-year-old man to a wall in the ordeal in Banbury.

The attack happened at about 12.30am on Thursday last week (October 18) in an alleyway, which joins Woodgreen Avenue and Edmunds Road.

Thames Valley Police has now released e-fit images of the two suspects.

The 19-year-old was walking in the alley when he was tapped on the shoulder from behind, by a man who demanded property from him.

The victim attempted to run away but another man appeared in the alley and blocked him. 

The first man then ran after the victim and punched his face three times.

Both robbers then pinned their victim to a wall and forced him to hand over his wallet.

The first man asked if the victim was scared, before hugging him and biting skin off his cheek.

The pair then told the victim to go home.

The first robber is described as white with tanned skin, 5ft 9ins, of athletic build, and was aged about 17 years old.

He had a rounded head and 'chubby cheeks', police said, short brown hair and brown eyes.

At the time he was wearing a beige hooded top and grey tracksuit trousers.

The second robber is described as black, 5ft 10ins, of muscular build, and aged about 19 years old.

He had a prominent jaw and cheekbones, and was wearing a navy rain jacket with the hood up, and a purple bandana around his mouth and cheeks.

The victim suffered facial injuries during the attack, and did not require hospital treatment.

Investigating officer PC Gemma Galloway, of Banbury Investigation Hub, said: "We are investigating the circumstances of the offence and would like to speak to anyone who saw what happened or who has any information which could assist our investigation."

Anyone with information can call 101 quoting the reference 43180327534, or report it online via the force's website.

Anonymous calls can be made to Crimestoppers via 0800 555 111.