A TRIO of thugs including a 15-year-old boy attacked a man and stole his cash, leaving him “shaken”.

Appearing at Hove Crown Court, Cameron Skilton, Reece Ripley, and the boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, pleaded guilty to assaulting the man in Bexhill.

The victim was walking along Hollier's Hill at 11.30pm on May 31 when he noticed a yellow Audi drive past him several times.

The car stopped nearby and Skilton, Ripley, and the boy got out before suddenly attacking him.

The victim was punched repeatedly in the face before breaking free.

But he fell over and the thugs continued to attack him while he was on the ground.

The Argus: The 'terrifying' attack took place in Hollier's Hill, BexhillThe 'terrifying' attack took place in Hollier's Hill, Bexhill

After the louts left, the victim realised his Apple Air Pod headphones and £250 in cash were missing from his pocket.

Police were called and began searching for the Audi.

At about half-past midnight on June 1 they found the car parked in Bexhill Road in St Leonards with Skilton, Ripley, and the boy inside. Officers arrested them and later found £230 in cash hidden in Ripley’s sock.

Skilton, 22, a labourer, of Oak Road, Bexhill, pleaded guilty to assault and theft when he appeared at Hove Crown Court on June 30.

Ripley, 20, unemployed, of Sidley Green, Bexhill, pleaded guilty to assault when he appeared at Hove Crown Court on the same date. They have both been remanded in custody for sentencing on August 6.

The 15-year-old boy also pleaded guilty to assault. He has been released on court bail for sentencing on August 6.

Detective Police Constable Sam Collyer said: “This was a terrifying and unprovoked attack which left the victim very shaken.

“Our officers were quick to identify the vehicle and persons involved, and we’re pleased to have secured guilty pleas from all three offenders.”