Police are appealing for witnesses after a man was held up at knife-point and robbed of his phone by two thugs on mopeds.

The incident took place in Chatfield Way, Basildon, yesterday afternoon and the police launched the helicopter to try and track the suspects down but they were unable to find them.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "We received a call at around 12.30pm today, Sunday, July 15, about a robbery in Chatfield Way, Basildon.

"We received reports that a man aged in his 30s was approached by two suspects who threatened him with a knife, took his phone and ran from the scene.

"The suspects later fled the area on mopeds and we searched the area with assistance from police helicopter but were unable locate them.

"Anyone with information is asked to call Basildon CID on 101 quoting crime reference 42/100689/18 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."