Police in Southend are seeking witnesses to an incident at a repair garage behind London Road, Westcliff on Thursday evening around 6pm.

Two men wearing ski masks entered Probert Motors in London Road and threatened the owner with a hammer before assaulting him whilst demanding money. They ran off, without taking anything, down an alleyway towards London Road, leaving the victim bleeding and needing hospital treatment.

The suspects are described as two young white men, wearing padded jackets and dark clothing. One was medium to slim build, less than 5ft 7ins tall.

The victim, a local man, aged 61, received two head injuries and an injury to his wrist for which he was treated and released from hospital.

DI Julie Gowen who is leading the investigation said: "This was a nasty, unprovoked assault on the man, who bravely fought back despite being hit with a hammer. The men were unsuccessful in their robbery attempt and I am concerned that they will try and strike again. They need to be identified urgently and I would appeal for help from the public. Anyone with any information is asked to contact CID at Southend police station on 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."