POLICE are on the trail of a gang of heartless youths who have repeatedly attacked a disabled man in Johnstone.

The 57-year-old victim, who has restricted mobility, has been physically and verbally abused by eight to 10 boys in the Spateston area on multiple occasions over the past fortnight.

On Wednesday, April 7, a number of the youths took the man's walking stick from him and battered him with it.

One of the boys carried out a similar attack at around 6.45pm on Sunday.

Police have confirmed they are treating the incidents as hate crimes.

The culprits are believed to be aged between 10 and 15. One of the boys is described as having ginger or blond hair and was wearing red jogging bottoms.

Inspector Damian Kane, head of community policing for Renfrewshire, said footage from CCTV cameras is being reviewed and door-to-door enquiries carried out as part of the investigation.

He added: "The youths have been using disgusting, offensive and derogatory comments about this man's restricted mobility.

"There are positive lines of enquiry and there will be enhanced patrols in the area to target these youths.

"Assistance will also be sought from local authority wardens and other personnel in identifying further youths involved."

Witnesses and anyone else who has information are asked to call officers on 101, citing crime number KB01810421.

READ MORE: Man arrested in connection with alleged theft