MUGGERS choked a man until he passed out before stealing his keys, wallet and phone.

The robbery happened shortly before 2.15 am on Friday July 15th when the victim, a man in his 20s, was walking along The Alban Way from the train station.

A group of men circled him and asked to hand over his belongings, before one of them then put him in a choke hold causing him to lose consciousness.

When he came around, he realised items including keys, a mobile phone and a Seiko watch had been stolen.

He also sustained a graze above one of his eyes and sore teeth.

The offenders are believed to have made off towards Vanda Crescent.

Detective Sergeant Katy Jackson, who is investigating the incident, said: “This was a nasty incident and I would urge anyone who may have been in the area, seen this group of males or can provide any information at all to come forward; no matter how insignificant you think it may be, as it could greatly assist our investigation.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.