A HAVE-A-GO hero was attacked while trying to bravely stop violent intruders who raided a university’s student accommodation.

Essex Police received reports two men entered Keynes Tower, at the University of Essex’s Colchester campus, as trespassers at about 9am on October 9.

They are then believed to have forced their way into a man’s student halls of residence before assaulting him when he attempted to intervene.

Several items, including a black speaker, were taken by the thieves, who have both been described as being white, in their 20s, about 5ft 10in tall and having dark hair.

One is described as wearing a navy Nike tracksuit and black trainers, while the other was wearing a white, orange and navy tracksuit top with jeans and white trainers.

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Essex Police are now appealing for anyone with information to contact the force as soon as possible.

A spokesman said: “Can you help detectives in Colchester?

“They are appealing for information following reports of a burglary in Keynes Tower, University of Essex.

“If you recognise the individuals pictured or have any information that may help our investigation, please contact us.”

The extent of the victim’s injuries has not yet been released by either Essex Police or the university.

But questions have since been raised about how the intruders were able to gain access to the inside of the university’s halls.

The educational facility has since stressed only people with the required clearance can enter its student accommodation.

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A spokesman said: “Access to our accommodation is strictly controlled by security passes and we encourage our students to be vigilant and make sure they don’t let anyone in who doesn’t have a valid pass.

“Our patrol team responded as soon as they were alerted and attempted to trace the suspects.

“We have then worked with Essex Police to identify the suspects on our CCTV system in support of their investigation to apprehend them.”

To speak to an online Essex Police operator between 7am and11pm visit at essex.police.uk between or contact Colchester CID on 101 quoting crime reference number 42/224193/21.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.