A BRAVE business owner stepped in to confront a gang of robbers who walked into their shop and started filling bags with stock, the Echo understands.

Police were called to the Fragrance of Light shop, in London Road, Leigh on Monday afternoon.

Officers are now investigating the incident and have urged witnesses to come forward with any evidence.

The Echo understands thieves walked into the shop and began to fill bags. The brave shop owner apparently locked the door and attempted to confront the perpetrators.

But the owner was pushed to the side and the thieves made off.

Martin Terry, Southend councillor for community safety, expressed his concerns about the incident, saying it was “disturbing” to see businesses being robbed in broad daylight.

He said: “I am very disappointed to hear about this incident. I sincerely hope the trader recovers from this horrible experience.

“It is really disturbing to see a business being robbed in broad daylight and during business hours. If anyone has any evidence, please contact Essex Police as I am sure they will be investigating this thoroughly.”

Leigh ward councillor, Carole Mulroney, shared her concerns about the incident and echoed Mr Terry’s concerns about the robbery occurring in daylight.

She said: “It is incredibly upsetting for the shop owner. It is so shocking and the effect of it will take a bit of time to wear off.

“It is a really serious thing for anyone to go through. I hope the owner isn’t too traumatised in the long term.

“The council will be working with police closely to make sure that those responsible will be brought to justice.”

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “Officers were called to reports of a robbery at a shop in London Road in Leigh at 3.45pm on Monday July 22.

“It was reported that three men entered the premises, grabbing property from the shelves, before fleeing.

“Officers attended and are investigating.

“We would appeal to anyone who witnessed the incident or has any footage to contact us and quote incident 0873 of July 22.”