A MAN was “punched to the face” and left with an eye injury during a terrifying robbery on Canvey.

Essex Police is investigating the incident which occurred at around 11pm on Sunday night.

It was reported the victim, a man in his 20s, was approached from behind by two males as he walked along Benderloch.

He was threatened and punched in the face before having his bag stolen.

Former Canvey councillor Ray Howard was shocked and disgusted to hear about the incident.

Mr Howard has lived on Canvey for more than 80 years and was concerned about the rise of crime on the island.

He said: “It is a disgrace to hear this. This poor man should not have to suffer something like this.

“I welcome and support any plea for anyone who was there at the time to come forward.

“I hope they have some sort of CCTV in the area too.

“These people need to be caught, named, and shamed for what they are doing.”

He added: “There has been quite a few incidents like this on the island lately. I have lived here 81 years and I don’t like this behaviour at all.

“When I was growing up on Canvey, my mother never knew what it was to do things such as lock your doors.

“The world has changed considerably, and some people have no respect.”

Officers are appealing for anyone who witnesses the incident or has any footage to come forward.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “A man reported being threatened and punched to the face causing an eye injury, before having his bag stolen.

“It was reported that no weapon was seen.

“If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.

“Please quote crime reference 42/131685/23 when providing any information to make sure it gets to the right person as quickly as possible.”

Alternatively, you can contact the independent crimefighting charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.