POLICE are continuing to investigate a robbery and assault in Grays where it is believed two 14-year-old boys attacked and injured a man in his fifties, leaving him with bleeding to his head and swelling around his eyes after striking him with a metal object.

The incident took place in Dock Road at around 5pm on Wednesday, 13 April on the green next to St Mary's Church in Little Thurrock.

A statement from Thurrock Police says: " We're investigating a robbery in Grays where it was reported a man was struck with a metal object.

"The victim, who's in his 50s, was struck leaving him with bleeding to his head and swelling around his eyes. A two-figure sum of cash was taken.

"The victim, who's in his 50s, was struck leaving him with bleeding to his head and swelling around his eyes. A two-figure sum of cash was taken.

"Two 14-year-old boys were arrested on suspicion of robbery and have since been released under investigation.

"We need anyone who saw anything or has any CCTV, dash cam, or doorbell footage to contact us.

"In particular we want to trace a man who was nearby at the time and may have seen what happened.

"If you have any information you can submit a report online at https://www.essex.police.uk where you can use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am and 11pm. Please quote the crime reference number 42/92366/22

"You can also call us on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."