A CHINESE food delivery driver was robbed at gunpoint when he was lured to a street with a false order.

The 26-year-old male victim, from South Woodham, was threatened by a man dressed in black, wearing a balaclava, who struck him round the neck with a gun.

The attack happened at around 10pm last night in Middleton Row, South Woodham.

An Essex Police spokeswoman said: "The man had a gun which the victim thinks may not have been a real weapon. He was struck round the neck with the pistol which left him with a minor injury."

The suspect stole his wallet containing a small sum of cash and his car keys which were later found nearby by a member of the public.

The suspect is described as aged 20-25 and of mixed heritage. Police believe he may be local as he seemed to know the nearby alleyway and area as he ran off from the scene.

Anyone who was in the area or has any information about the suspect is urgent to contact detectives at Chelmsford CID on 101 or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.