A teenage girl was beaten and robbed of her mobile phone as she walked along Brighton seafront early today.

Two women punched the 16-year-old girl in the face and chest, then stole her phone and handbag.

The attack happened at 12.45am on Marine Parade.

The victim was treated at the Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton, for injuries including a black eye, split lip and bruising.

PC Natalie Vellacott said: "The girl was left extremely shocked and distressed.

"We'd like to hear from passing motorists who may have thought the robbery was a group of three female friends messing about."