A bystander was hit on the head with a hammer as two teenage boys robbed a shop.

Police officers were called to the Co-op store, in Gardner Avenue, Corringham, on Saturday, January 31, at 9.45pm.

Two teenagers had forced a staff member to hand over money from the till after hitting a member of the public with a hammer, causing minor head injuries.

The boys then ran off in the direction of Southend Road.

Officers on foot, as well as the police helicopter and dog unit, searched the area but found no trace of the suspects.

The boys are described as wearing dark tracksuits with their faces covered.

One is described as black, of slim build and tall, while the other is white.

Police are linking the robbery with a similar incident which happened at 7.40pm the same day at the post office in Hathaway Road, Grays.

A black man threatened staff with a hammer before running off in the direction of Wallace Road, empty-handed.

The suspect was described as around 6ft tall, wearing dark clothing and a scarf covering his face.

Anyone with information is asked to call PC Charlotte Davis at Grays police station on 101 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.