A WOMAN who was beaten by vicious thugs was rescued by a heroic teenager.

The woman was first approached on Wednesday evening by three hooded figures as she walked along Radwinter Avenue, in Wickford.

The trio, believed to be youths, then attacked the woman, in what friends have described on social media as an "attempted mugging".

But before making off, the trio were interrupted by a 17-year-old Good Samaritan.

The group then cowered and ran away.

A friend of the victim took to social media to warn others about what had happened and to thank the teenager for intervening, claiming that the woman was "badly bruised" in the attack.

Essex Police said they were called at about 9pm, shortly after the ordeal took place, and have confirmed that the woman took herself to hospital at the time with minor injuries.

An investigation has been launched.

Don Morris, councillor for Wickford Castledon, said: “This is absolutely devastating.

I really hope the lady recovers and my heart goes out to her.

“These people need to be punished severely for doing this to this poor woman, and I think they should go away for life.

“It’s really sad that there are more good people out there than bad, but the small minority behave like this.

“Although I would advise people to remain vigilant, nobody should be scared to walk around by themselves.

“I’d ask anyone who may have seen anything or has any information and footage to get in touch with the police.”

George Jeffrey, councillor for Wickford Park, said: “This behaviour is completely unacceptable and I’m disgusted this has taken place.”

A spokesperson from Essex Police, said: "We are investigating a report of an assault in Wickford on Wednesday 19 February.

"It was reported that around 9pm, a woman, aged in her 30s, was on Radwinter Avenue when she was approached by three people thought to be in their teens.

"They hit and pushed the woman.

"The woman, who was left understandably shaken by the incident, was treated for minor injuries.

"No items were reported stolen.

"We would also like to speak to those who were in the area around the time and witnessed the incident or any suspicious behaviour.

"Anyone with information are asked to contact Basildon local policing team on 101, quoting crime reference 42/27673/20.

"Information can also be given completely anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org."