Teenager robbed of computer game

Grand Theft Auto went on sale in shops at midnight

A teenager was kicked, punched and robbed of a computer game which he had bought only moments after its release.

The 18-year-old and his friend had bought Grand Theft Auto IV from a Lancashire video shop after its release at midnight.

As they walked home in Leyland two men punched and kicked the teenager to the ground before stealing the game.

Lancashire police said the robbers were targeting the game, and described the attack as "nasty".

The two friends were on Golden Hill Lane, walking back from Blockbusters, when they were attacked.

Broken jaw

Grand Theft Auto IV was released at midnight with some shops opening late to meet expected demand.

Det Sgt Claire Lancaster of Lancashire police said: "This was a nasty attack the motive of which seems to have been the video game.

"The victim was taken to Royal Preston Hospital and has suffered a broken nose and a broken jaw. I would appeal to any witnesses to come forward and contact the police."

The two robbers are described as white and aged between 18 and 20.

Police believe a girl was with the pair, but not involved in the attack.

She was younger than them, white, with light-coloured hair tied back in a ponytail and possibly wearing a light-coloured padded jacket with a fur trimmed hood.