A gang attacked a man with cerebral palsy and tried to rob him in a Mid Sussex park.
Two of the attackers grabbed the victim, demanded money, then pushed him into a hedge and kicked him several times when he refused to give them any.
The shocked victim managed to fight off his assailants and reported the crime to his father. Nothing was stolen and he was not physically hurt.
The attack happened as the 24-year-old was walking home through Clair Park in Haywards Heath at about 8.40pm yesterday.
He was about halfway through the park when the gang grabbed him.
PC Colin Kenwood of Haywards Heath police said: "The fact that the man had cerebral palsy makes this offence even more despicable.
"We would like anyone who may be able to help us with our inquiries to come forward."
The attackers were aged 15 to 20. One was 6ft tall and thin, and wore a light coloured baseball cap and a padded jacket.
Another was 5ft 8in tall and stocky. He wore a dark top, possibly a sweatshirt, and jeans.
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