TWO thugs threatened a woman and stole her handbag at knifepoint during a terrifying robbery at a bus stop.

A woman in her 20s was walking home alone when two men demanded she handover her handbag in High Road, Vange.

The men pushed her to the floor and threatened her with a weapon - believed to be a knife - before fleeing with her handbag.

Essex Police have launched an appeal for witnesses after the men fled along Chestnut Road, Vange, at roughly 11.30pm on Friday night. 

The men were sitting at a bus stop on High Road before the robbery and the force is urgently appealing for help to track them down.

The first suspect is described as white, in his late 20s, of average height with scruffy brown facial hair. He was wearing a grey tracksuit. The second suspect is described as wearing a black tracksuit.

The woman was shaken after the incident, but not injured.

Detective Constable Katherine Gardner, who is leading the investigation, said: “This incident was very distressing for the woman involved and we are supporting her.

"Our investigation is moving at pace and we are now appealing for the public’s help.

“Many people were in the area before, during and after the robbery. We would appeal to people to check any dashcam, CCTV, or other footage they may have to see if they have any information which might help us.

“This type of incident is understandably concerning to the local community; however I can assure you teams across the force are working hard to find those responsible.”

Anyone with information should contact Essex Police on 101 quoting crime reference number 42/88280/24.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.