A HOMELESS man turned nasty and tried to rob a man at Basildon’s bus station.

A 56-year-old man was waiting for a bus in Southernhay when he was approached by the man.

The suspect then demanded the victim hand over money.

However, when the victim ignored him, he punched him to his shoulder and despite initially chasing the victim, he ran off without stealing anything.

Det Supt Kevin Baldwin, a south local policing area Supt, said: “The suspect has approached the victim asking for money.

“When the victim has turned away and ignored the suspect, the suspect has punched him to the shoulder.”

Essex Police are dealing with the crime as an attempted robbery.

Mr Baldwin continued: “The victim has then run away and the suspect has followed him shouting ‘who do you think you are?’

“He then left the scene.

“The victim said that the suspect was homeless.”

Mr Baldwin urged any travellers using Basildon bus station to remain cautious and alert.

He added: “I would ask people to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings.”

Jan Litchfield, 35, of Copdoek, Basildon, uses the bus station frequently.

She said: “I get buses every week in and out of town and it does make me slightly concerned that this is going on.

“Next time I am there I will keep my wits about me, and make sure nobody is following me. “It’s awful that you have to feel this way in your own town.”

The incident happened at 1.20pm on Monday.

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

Police are appealing for witnesses.

Anyone with information can call Essex Police on 101 or independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Alternatively visit crimestoppers-uk.org to fill out an anonymous online form.