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A large group of schoolchildren were filmed attacking a man in the smoking area of a Croydon town centre pub.

Around 30 schoolchildren were reportedly spotted by witnesses threatening and attacking a man on High Street in Croydon at about 5.15pm on Wednesday (June 5).

Footage of the incident posted on social media, which has gone viral, shows the group attacking the man outside the front of The Milan Bar.

It is understood the man was chased along High Street and tried to seek help by going into the smoking area.

The shocking video shows around 10 schoolchildren in uniform pulling at the screen around the pub tables before the man is punched.

The man tries to protect himself by picking up a chair and putting it over his head.

Other people who are outside the pub attempt to step in to help to protect him.

(Image: David Cook)

A number of drinks are then thrown in the direction of the man before the schoolchildren disperse.

A Wetherspoon spokesman said: “As we understand it, an incident had started away from the pub between a man and around 30 schoolchildren.

“The incident moved down the street towards our pub.

“The man sought refuse in our outside smoking area and customers have tried to assist him.

“The schoolchildren moved into the area and pushed the man back toward the window and they started picking up tables and chairs and hitting the man.

“This was a despicable incident and we will assist in any way we can with their enquiries.”

The Metropolitan Police have launched an investigation and have arrested two teenagers in connection with the attack.

A spokeswoman for the force said: "Police were called at 5.19pm on Wednesday, June 5 to reports of a group of youths fighting in High Street, Croydon.

"Officers attended and the group made-off in different directions.

"Following a short foot chase two males, aged 14 and 13, were arrested on suspicion of affray.

"They were taken to a South London police station and were subsequently bailed to return on dates in mid-June.

"An area search was conducted for victims but nobody made themselves known to officers."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting 6146/05JUN or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Did you see the incident? If so, email samuel.truelove@reachplc.com.