A GANG of thugs attacked an elderly man in a city park for less than £50.

Detectives hunting the suspected blasted them as "despicable" and have launched an investigation to catch them.

The 76-year-old victim was in Govanhill Park, at around 8.15pm on Tuesday, when he was approached by four men.

They battered him and stole the two-figure sum from him.

Police said the group, who are described as being of Eastern European appearance, made off along Preston Street towards Cathcart Road.

Detective Constable Alan Evans, from Pollok CID, is leading the hunt for the gang.

He said: "This was a despicable attack on a vulnerable old man who has been left badly shaken by what happened."

Police believe families, who were in the park at the time of the attack, may hold vital information about the incident.

DI Evans also appealed for two teenagers, who chase the gang of thugs, to come forward.

He added: "The park was busy with women and children at the time of the incident.

"I would appeal to anyone who was there and witnessed it to contact police.

"In particular, I would like to trace two teenage men, described as white with Scottish accents, who chased the group away before returning to check on the victim.

"I would like to take this opportunity to reassure the local community that Police Scotland will not tolerate this type of behaviour and additional officers are patrolling the surrounding area."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101.