A SCHOOLBOY was cut with a knife while defending himself from a would-be robber at Burnham railway station.

The 17-year-old received a cut to his arm after a man who had demanded money from him drew out the weapon.

The man with the knife fled the scene without taking anything from his victim.

British Transport Police is now investigating the incident and has launched an appeal for witnesses to the attempted robbery, which took place just before 7am on Wednesday, May 7.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Martin Coburn said: “This horrible attack left the young victim understandably shaken and upset, and I appeal to anyone with information to come forward and help us identify the person responsible, so they can be dealt with accordingly.

“Shortly before 7am, the victim was walking through the tunnel that leads to the platform stairs when he was approached by a man who demanded money from him.

“The teen refused and the suspect drew a knife. The victim raised his arm to defend himself and received a small cut to the arm. The suspect then ran away from the station while the victim continued on his journey to London.”

The attacker is described as a white man who was wearing a dark blue hooded top zipped up with the hood pulled up.

Anyone with information which might assist officers in their investigation is asked to contact British Transport Police on Freefone 0800 40 50 40, or text 61016, quoting reference ESUB/B3 of 09/05/14. Alternatively call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.