BRITISH Transport Police has released CCTV images after four boys were robbed on their way home from school in Cradley Heath.

Officers are appealing for the public's help in tracing the two men pictured, who they want to speak to about the incident, on Wednesday, January 14.

Detective constable Tim Friend, leading the investigation, said: “At approximately 6.45pm three boys – aged between 12 and 13 – were travelling home from school on a Kidderminster to Dorridge train.

“A group of three men boarded the train at Cradley Heath station.

"Shortly after the train departed the men approached the boys and began to verbally abuse them then one of the men threatened the boys and claimed to have a knife, at which point a 13-year-old boy handed over his mobile phone."

He added: “The men left the train at Old Street station and the boys reported the incident to the train guard who contacted BTP.”

Police are treating the incident as a robbery and attempted robbery. Officers have been pursuing several lines of enquiry, including reviewing CCTV footage from the train and local stations.

DC Friend added: “Who are the two men pictured? I want to speak to them as a matter of urgency about what happened. If you recognise them, or have any other information that could assist, please get in touch.”

“This was an incredibly distressing incident for the three young lads, which left them scared of travelling to and from school. Given the reference to a knife, and the young age of the victims, we are treating this very seriously and are doing all we can to catch those responsible.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40, or text 61016, quoting reference M/B6 of 20/03/2015.

Information can also be passed anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.