A CYCLIST was attacked and robbed in Westcliff.

The man was cycling along North Road at 10pm when he was approached by a man at the junction with Tudor Road who pushed him off his bike, causing cuts and bruises to his arm.

As the victim looked up, he saw a group of young men running off towards West Street. Members of the group were holding his bag, wallet and mobile phone which had been on the back of his bike.

Investigating Officer, Dc Reece Brent, said: "This type of incident does have a profound effect on a victim and so we would appeal to witnesses to come forward so that we can identify this group. Nobody has the right to assault an individual and steal their property. We would take this opportunity to remind people to conceal high-value items and plan their routes along well-lit roads, lanes or alleys when travelling alone at night.”

The assailants are described as white, aged in their late teens or early 20s and were wearing dark hoodies.

The incident happened on May 5 but the victim was only able to provide police with a statement on Sunday, May 13.

Anyone with information in connection with this robbery is urged to contact detectives at Southend police station on 101.