A MAN has been robbed at a Basildon beauty spot.

Residents are calling for an end to crime in Northlands Park following the latest incident.

The victim, aged in his twenties, was walking through Northlands Park near the entrance at 6.45am on Wednesday when he was approached by two men who assaulted him and took all of his belongings including his bag, wallet and phone.

The incident is the latest in a string of violent incidents in the park, which has developed a negative reputation in recent years.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “We have received reports of a robbery in Basildon.

“The victim was approached by two men.

“One of the men asked for a lighter and, before the victim could respond, he was assaulted.

“Both men were described by the victim as being white and aged between 18 and 20-years-old.

“The two men left the scene on bikes, cycling in the direction of Chalvedon shops.”

The park has frequently hit the headlines in recent years with reports of similar incidents, as well as a violent attack on a jogger early in the morning and a sexual assault.

Pitsea North West Councillor Gary Canham, who’s ward covers Northlands Park, expressed concern about safety at the park.

He said: “Northlands Park is an area that often comes up in discussion with regards to issues surrounding safety, and there needs to be a more comprehensive, long term solution to the problems we have seen.

“The sad thing is we have issues so frequently that people don’t seem to be fazed by it any more, which is a problem in itself - residents shouldn’t have to live like this. Everyone should be able to enjoy our parks without fearing for their safety. “

Police are appealing for more information on the incident, and have asked witnesses, or anybody with information, to call 101 and quote incident number 0191 of 25/07.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.