THE big freeze has brought the worst out in yobs.

Since the snow and ice set in, police have been called to scores of incidents across the county where youngsters have been hurling ice missiles.

Youths caused more than £500 damage after lobbing ice at vehicles in Basildon.

A gang who hurled iceballs at a white Renault Master Van in Sainsbury’s car park in Cricketers Way, Nevendon, cracked the windscreen and caused £300 damage.

Thugs later hurled iceballs at a double decker bus in High Road, Laindon, and smashed a window, which will cost £250 to repair.

Meanwhile in Rayleigh, children hurled iceballs at a fast food shop on the High Street.

Two letters fell off of the sign belonging to Favourite Chicken and Ribs, causing £100 damage.

Police spokesman Laura Anderson said: “These were extremely dangerous and irresponsible things to do.

“It is hard enough for vehicles to stay safe on the roads in ice, without the added danger of snowballs cracking glass.”

In Dock Road, Tilbury, a man was robbed at knifepoint as he scraped ice from his car.

Chief Insp Richard Phillibrown told parents to make sure children who are off from schools “behave considerately” when out in the snow.

Witnesses to the incidents can contact police at Southend or Basildon on 0300 3334444 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.