POLICE are hunting two thugs who slashed at a man's chest as he tried to stop them stealing his car.

The 24-year-old victim, of Linroping Avenue, Canvey, was left with a wound that needed 16 stitches.

The man spotted two men tampering with the vehicle and ran after them.

He caught up with them, but was slashed across the chest with a blade. He was treated at Southend Hospital.

The two men in their late teens to early twenties, ran off in the direction of Holten Road.

The first suspect was 5ft 2ins to 5ft 4ins tall, of mixed race and slim. He was wearing a dark, woollen-style hat with writing on it and a dark hooded top and jeans.

The other suspect was white.

Anyone with information on the incident, at 1am on Sunday, December 30, can call Canvey CID on 01268 775533, ext 39432, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.