A man had his hands slashed and his head bashed as a group of men stole his phone and wallet.

Police were called to George Lane, near South Woodford station, this morning (August 13) following reports of a man injured at 4.25am.

A man, in his 30s, was found with a slash wound to his hand and he also had head injuries, Metropolitan Police said.

He was rushed to hospital but was found to have non-life-threatening or life-changing injuries.

A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: “Initial enquiries suggest the man was assaulted by a group of four men who stole his phone and wallet.

“An investigation is under way and enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances.”

The force said there have been no arrests at this moment.

A cordon was in place around George Lane, with a closure in place between Hermon Hill and South Woodford station.

Bus routes including the 179, W12, W13 and W14 were diverted this morning.

It is understood the closure has since been lifted.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting CAD 1308/13Aug or alternatively contact anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.