A DRIVER was “racially abused” after he confronted masked thugs trying to steal his car, prompting police to release a public appeal for information.

The incident took place at 12.30am on Saturday, March 31 when two suspects attempted to steal a blue Toyota C-HR in Woodside, Leigh-on-Sea.

The suspects were both described as white men, aged between 16 and 25 years old, roughly 5ft 9in tall, slim, and wearing black puffer jackets and jogging bottoms.

One was wearing a white balaclava and the other was wearing a black balaclava, with the two making off towards Linksway after they were confronted.

Echo: Scarper – the two suspects made off towards Linksway after they were confrontedScarper – the two suspects made off towards Linksway after they were confronted (Image: Google Street View)

Police are now appealing for any information, witnesses or doorbell footage between 12.30am and 12.50am on March 31.

Essex Police has said that anyone who can assist with their investigation should contact the force and quote incident number 42/50643/24.

Members of the public can contact Essex Police with information on 101 or by using the live chat service on the Essex Police website.

Councillor Stephen Aylen, of Belfairs ward, said he too has shared appeals on Facebook so members of the public can report the suspects to the police if they are spotted.

He said: “What I can say is that the police are doing everything possible and they rely on people to come forward with information – the problem is that people won’t always report things.

“I know why, and it’s because you phone 101 and it’s so difficult to get through – then you get told to report it online.

Echo: Concerned – Councillor Stephen Aylen said he has shared appeals on Facebook about incidents in Belfairs wardConcerned – Councillor Stephen Aylen said he has shared appeals on Facebook about incidents in Belfairs ward (Image: Stephen Aylen)

“Most of the people in the Belfairs area are of the age where they are not using computers – it can be so difficult to report it online.

“It’s the same old problem – there are not enough local police stations to go in and report things to.”

Despite the difficulties some may have in reporting incidents, Mr Aylen praised the police community support officer for the area, and advised residents to take usual precautions to keep their addresses safe.

“Have ring doorbells and cameras, make sure your sheds are locked, and don’t keep wheelie bins right next to your house, because people can use them to climb over the fence.”