A teenager with learning difficulties was pushed into the path of a moving car by a gang of bullies as she left school.

The 15-year-old victim, who has a mild learning difficulty, was walking in Rye Road near Hastings Academy at 3.05pm on Friday when she was shoved into the road from behind by a girl.

A passing car had to swerve to avoid hitting the 15-year-old as a nearby group of about 15 girls cheered.

One of the girls then walked up to the victim and punched her in the stomach while glue was also thrown in her hair before she could walk away.

PC Jodie Walter said: "This must have been a terrifying incident for the victim.

“What began as nasty verbal abuse became a violent assault that on another day could have seen her being knocked down and seriously hurt.

"I need to speak to anyone who saw any part of the incident or the group of girls before or after the attack.

“I particularly need to trace the driver of the car who swerved to avoid the victim, he may not have realised that the victim was being attacked at the time.

"We need the help of the public to identify those responsible so they can be punished before they target anyone else."

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting serial 974 of 28/2 or email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk.

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