An investigation has been launched by Essex Police after a newsagent employee was threatened at knifepoint in an attempted robbery.

Police were called just after 11.30pm yesterday, Friday, March 30, with reports that a man armed with a knife had entered the shop in Kiln Road and threatened a member of staff.

The man demanded money, and when the till would not open, the victim led him to the address upstairs and locked himself in a room. The man then tried to force the door open with no success, and left empty handed.

The victim was not injured.

The man was described as white, and was wearing black clothing. He had a white material over his face and head, and wore white gloves.

He was 5ft11ins and of medium to stocky build. His jacket was black and padded, with a white logo on the back shoulder.  

An area search was conducted and house to house enquiries have been carried out. The ongoing investigation is being led by detectives at Basildon CID.

Do you have information which could help the police locate the person responsible?

Please contact Basildon CID on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.