A young boy has been threatened and robbed and detectives are appealing to the public for witnesses.

The boy was sitting on his bike in Leigh Road, Canvey, on August 11, when he was approached by a man and verbally threatened.

The suspect demanded the boy hand over his phone, which the victim had in his hand, and then made off on foot with the phone.

The suspect is described as white, of skinny build, with dark hair and a black fringe. He also had chin stubble and was wearing a black, Nike branded hoodie.

The victim was left distressed but physically uninjured.

Anyone who may have information about the incident is asked to contact DC Danielle Hutton at Basildon CID on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.