A MAN punched a 14-year-old boy before stealing his bike.

Police have produced an efit for the suspect who viciously stole the black, white and red Ammoco mountain bike from the boy who was cycling in Pier Hill.

The suspect went up to the boy, threatened him, then punched him in the face before fleeing on the stolen bike.

Police are also hoping residents may spot the £160 bicycle (pictured) and will be able to tell them where it is.

DC Any Copley, from Southend police, said: "The suspect targeted his young victim and then assaulted him, so anyone who can identify this man should contact me so that we can arrest him."

Anyone with information about the incident, which took place at about 6.50pm on Saturday, August 2, can call Southend CID on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.