Police have released CCTV footage of a violent robbery which took place in Kensington .

They are hoping to identify they two men who pounced on a 20-year-old man as he walked along Cornwall Gardens at around 9.30pm on January 30.

The footage shows the victim walking and looking at his mobile phone when a man creeps up on him from behind and viciously grabs him around the neck.

The victim is seen struggling while his assailant holds tight, and waits for an accomplice to appear shortly after to wrestle the phone from their target.

The victim then has his pockets searched before the suspects leave with the bag he was carrying. His wallet was also stolen during the robbery.

The victim is then thrown to the ground as the pair run from the scene. Police say he was not injured but left “very shaken” by his ordeal.

The first suspect is a white man, aged between 25 and 35 years. He was wearing dark clothing and a hat.

The second suspect is also white, and was also wearing dark clothing. He had dark coloured hair.

CCTV still from the shocking footage as the two men pounce on their victim

Anyone who recognises the men or can provide information on their whereabouts is asked to call Detective Sergeant Sean Lyons, from Kensington and Chelsea CID , on 020 8246 0189 or via 101.

Calls can also be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.