TWO schoolgirls were mugged for just £5 by two girls in an underpass as they made their way to school.

The teenagers were approached by two girls, thought to be about 16-years-old, in the underpass in South Wash Road, Basildon, at about 8.40am.

One of the robbers tried to snatch one of the girl’s mobile phones before demanding that they hand over cash.

The victims handed over the £5 note and the robbers fled the scene.

Stuart Allen, councillor for Crouch Ward, which covers South Wash Road, urged people to be on their guard.

He said: “Robbery is always an issue whenever it happens.

“Unfortunately, you never know exactly who is out there and what their intentions are.

“I think my general instruction would be to keep alert.

“Every stranger could be a friend but then they could also be an enemy.

“Keep vigilant.

“I have never known of any issues at that particular underpass before now.

“I don’t think there is need for CCTV - as they are not always monitored.”

The Echo reported earlier this week how 21-year-old Shannon Oakley was approached by a man in his forties in the underpass between Tesco Extra and Pitsea train station.

He attempted to snatch her handbag but she managed to get away without anything being stolen.

An Essex Police spokesman said: “Police were called to reports of a robbery in South Wash Road, Basildon, at around 8.40am.

“Two schoolgirls were walking through an underpass when they approached by two girls, who attempted to take one of their mobile phones.

“They then demanded cash before running off with a single figure sum.”

Police have issued descriptions of the two girls in the hope that someone might recognise them and come forward with information.

They were both described as white, around 16-years old and had Irish accents.

The first girl was about 5ft 6ins tall, wore a pink T-shirt and had long blonde hair tied in plaits.

The second girl was about 5ft 4ins tall, wore a navy blue T-shirt and had ginger hair tied in a bun.

Fortunately, the two schoolgirls were unhurt but were left shocked and shaken.

So far, no arrests have been made and enquiries are continuing.

Police are appealing for witnesses.

The robbery happened on Monday, May 15 but police have only just released the information.

Anyone who saw any suspicious activity at the time of the robbery and with information is asked to contact Basildon CID on 101.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org