A GANG tied up and beat a man in a church as they demanded money and gold.

Police are hunting for five men who attacked a 33-year-old man from Kosovo while looking for valuables at St Augustine's Church in Stanford Avenue, Brighton.

The victim visited the church – currently used as a community centre – at 9.30pm yesterday 27/10 where he was confronted by three British and two Eastern European men.

In the unprovoked attack, the victim was struck in the face, tied up and beaten as the men demanded money and gold. They eventually made off with some electrical items.

Detective sergeant Cheryl Lewendon, of Brighton CID, said: "Their victim suffered some really nasty injuries and we are keen to speak to anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious, or who may have other information that may help our investigation.

"House-to-house enquiries are being made and while this would appear to be an isolated incident, patrols have been stepped up in the area to provide reassurance to residents and visitors."

Anyone with information should call 101, quoting 1583 of 27/10 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.