A gang of robbers mugged a tourist of a precious family watch as he took an early morning stroll along Brighton seafront.
The watch had been given to the victim’s father by his grandfather the last time he saw him before he was taken to Auschwitz concentration camp during the war.
Police today issued a witness appeal for anyone who saw the three men rob the 53-year-old tourist between 7am and 8am on Sunday, 20 July.
The victim, who was visiting from Wiltshire, decided to go for a morning stroll along Kings Road in Brighton.
When he reached the area near the Hilton Hotel he was approached by three men, with cans of drink in their hands.
They engaged him in conversation and asked for his phone, he refused, and changed the subject. During the conversation they said they were from south east London.
They then grabbed his bag, containing the watch, and then kicked him in the groin, before running off.
Detective Constable Caroline Biggs said: “Obviously the victim is devastated that this item has been stolen.
“We are keen to locate the offenders and the watch, a silver Longines, with a clear face, with Roman numerals, dated circa 1912.
“Anyone who has any information about such an item recently being offered for sale or seen with anyone, is asked to contact us.
“We’d also like to hear from anyone who saw what happened or saw these men in the area at the time.”
All three are described as white and in their late teens and about 5ft 7in.
The man who grabbed the bag had mousy short hair, was of slim build, and was wearing a white hoody and white tracksuit.
The man who kicked the victim in the groin was also of slim build, with short dark hair, wearing dark blue jogging jacket.
The third man asked to see the phone had dark short hair and wore a blue dark hooded top, and appeared friendly.
Two young women who were with the men but did not attack the man are also asked to come forward to assist police.
One is described as white, with pink hair, and was in her twenties, of slim build, about 5ft 7in, wearing a light top and dark jeans.
The second was of Indian or Asian appearance, about 5ft 7in, and wore a hooded grey top and dark jeans top.
Anyone who can help is asked to contact police via 101 or email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk. You can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
