They started coming at me with their bikes ... one took his helmet off and gave me at least three blows to the head

BATTERED and bruised, this is how motorbike riding yobs left a volunteer who challenged them as they tore up a village green.

- By SOPHIE DOUGHTY Crime Reporter

Steve Lowe had just finished a day's work at Cresswell Pele Tower, in Cresswell, Northumberland, when he noticed the trio riding around on the grass outside.

And when he shouted at them to stop, the thugs turned on him, riding their bikes at him before hitting him over the head with a helmet.

Police are still hunting the attackers, who also stole money donated by visitors to the tower, which is a popular tourist attraction. And Steve has relived his ordeal as he told the Chronicle of his anger.

The 64-year-old said: "It was frightening. It wasn't something I was expecting on a Sunday evening. It's a tourist area, people are there for a nice day. They are just getting their kicks, they think they are invincible."

Steve, who works as a volunteer co-ordinator and engagement officer, had just left the tower after a busy day for visitors when he noticed three lads on the village green outside.

Two were riding what looked like E-scooters, while the other was on an off-road motorbike. Two wore balaclavas and the other a helmet.

"We had been open for the day and we had over 100 visitors there were families and children who all had a great day. Myself and my colleagues were coming out and going to our cars and I saw these kids straight away," he explained.