YOUNG crooks followed a boy into an alleyway and robbed him of his trainers.

The three teenagers pushed the victim, 15, to the ground and demanded he hand over his shoes.

Police, who said the boys were known to them, attended and arrested three suspects aged 14, 15 and 17 within 24 hours.

All three have been interviewed and released on conditional bail until November 26, pending further enquiries.

The victim was left unhurt but shaken by the ordeal. His trainers were recovered and given back to him.

The incident happened in Bell Farm Road, Uckfield, at about 4pm on Monday.

Inspector Jon Gross said: “Officers have worked swiftly to identify the suspects involved and take enforcement action.

“Tackling this type of incident is a priority for Sussex Police and I would caution anyone against getting involved in serious offences such as this.

“There is an excellent working relationship within the town between local officers and community leaders, and on all sides a commitment to tackling perpetrators of public place antisocial behaviour and violence. Crimes of this nature will not be tolerated.”

Anyone who witnessed what happened is asked to report it online or call 101, quoting serial 915 of 28/10.