A TERRIFIED ten-year-old boy has been left shaken-up after two teenage thugs – including one wearing a balaclava – forced to him hand over his money.

Essex Police received concerning reports regarding a youngster being targeted in Chalkwell Park, Westcliff, at about 2.30pm on Saturday.

The schoolboy is understood to have been confronted by two people - both of whom have been described as white - who demanded money from him.

The brave boy told officers he believed one of the attackers may have been in possession of a weapon.

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A spokesman for Essex Police said: “We are investigating a robbery in Westcliff where a ten-year-old boy was targeted.

“The victim was with a friend when they were approached by two people, described as teenager boys.

“The victim reported seeing a knife in the pocket of one and he handed over a small amount of cash.”

One of the assailants involved in the robbery, considered to be aged 14 or 15, 5ft 8ins tall and slim, wore a balaclava which covered his whole face except for his eyes.

He also had a black tracksuit with red stripes down it and black sliders.

The second teenager is described as being 5ft 6ins or 5ft 7ins tall, slim, with curly brown or black hair.

“We know this incident is likely to cause concern,” added a spokesman for the police.

“Additional high visibility patrols have been taking place in the area since the incident took place.”

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Police have now launched an appeal.

Anyone with information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident should call 101 quoting crime reference number 42/20963/23.

Reports can also be submitted to the force’s website or by using its online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday between 10am-9pm.

Alternatively, if you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.