A MAN was savagely attacked near Benfleet rail station, police said today.

Officers are appealing for witnesses to the assault on the 27-year-old man at 9.40pm on Friday.

The assault, in Benfleet High Street close to the subway leading to the rail station, came as the man saw his girlfriend into a taxi.

He was approached by the two men who launched an unprovoked attack on him, punching him to the ground and kicking him to his head and body.

He suffered cuts and bruises to his face, arms and torso.

The men were both described as Afro-Caribbean and aged about 17.

The first suspect was around 5ft 8ins tall, of medium build, clean shaven and had short cropped hair.

He was wearing a knee-length duffle coat with black trousers.

The second man was about 5ft 11ins tall and slim. He was wearing a multi-coloured sports jacket and a baseball cap.

Sgt Myles Hilbery, of Essex Police, said: “This was a savage assault and it is important we trace those responsible as soon as possible.

"It happened in a busy location and I would like to hear from anyone in the vicinity of Benfleet station at the time.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at Benfleet on 0300 333 4444.