A man was nearly forced into a stranger's car in Westcliff before managing to escape.

Police are now appealing for witnesses to the assault in Hamlet Court Road.

Officers were called shortly before 9.40am on Monday, March 16 following reports that a man had been approached by suspects in a silver car, who tried to make him get into the vehicle.

However, the victim got away and the car drove off.

Police later arrested two men aged 21, a 25-year-old man, and a 20-year-old man, all from London, in connection with the incident.

They were released on police bail until May 18, pending further enquiries.

Officers are appealing for the victim or anyone with information to contact police in Southend on 101.