A MAN was threatened at knife-point and robbed in a Southend alleyway.

The 28-year-old man had been walking through the alleyway leading off Grange Gardens when he was approached by four men who asked for a lighter.

While lighting one of the suspect’s cigarette, one of the men threatened him with a knife and demanded money.

The victim handed over his wallet and the group of men ran off at about 8.50am.

Det Con Jo Oats, of Southend CID, said: “We would appeal to anyone who saw the incident to come forward. Thankfully the victim wasn’t hurt but it could have been very different.”

The suspects are described as white, aged between 16 to 18, of skinny build and approximately 5ft 9ins tall.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at Southend CID on 0300 333 4444.