Four teenagers robbed a 70-year-old man of alcohol, leaving him with cuts and bruising to his face.

The victim was walking along Rectory Road, Pitsea, when he saw the suspects standing in a bus stop opposite The Cellar off licence.

One asked for the two bottles of cider he was carrying, and when he refused, they punched and kicked him to the ground.

They continued to kick him while he was on the ground and one of the suspects stole the alcohol from him.

All four then ran off towards Wickford Avenue.

The victim made his way home and contacted police. He suffered bruising and cuts to his face.

Investigating officer Pc Paul Simmons said: "He has been left shaken and in a lot of pain.

"The incident took place sometime during the afternoon of January 9 but unfortunately the victim cannot remember exactly when.

"He has described the suspects as being white, male and aged about 18. One wore a black baseball cap with the word "LEVI” written on the front.

"I am appealing for anyone who was in the area last Monday afternoon who saw what happened or saw the suspects before or after the incident to please get in touch.”

Witnesses or anyone with information are asked to contact Pc Simmons at Basildon CID on 101.

Alternatively, they can contact independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or crimestoppers-uk.org.

Details of the incident have only just been released by police.