A 21-year-old man was attacked as he walked home from a party in the early hours of New Years Day.

The victim was walking in Lakeside Path on Canvey and was texting on his IPhone when he was attacked from behind without warning.

He was punched on the back of the head which sent him flying to the floor.

While he was down three men kicked him several times to the torso.

They stole his mobile phone and made off in the general direction of Ferrymead The victim was left with minor bruising to his head and ribs.

The attack happened at about 3.30am.

Investigating Officer Dc Simon Laurie said: "The phone has since been blocked rendering it useless, but I want to hear from anyone offered an IPhone or anyone who was in the area that night."

The three robbers were white, aged in their early 20s and spoke with local accents.

One had short dark hair and was wearing a white shirt, dark jeans and white trainers.

Another had short brown hair, was wearing a dark and light blue, short sleeved chequered shirt, black Addidas trainers and dark jeans.

The victim could not give a description of the third man.

Police are appealing for any witnesses who were in the area and may have seen the men responsible, to contact them.

Anyone with any information should contact Dc Laurie at Southend CID on 101.