POLICE were alerted and are reported to have been watching local roads following a failed attempt by three masked youngsters to steal a delivery motorbike at a Lakeside shopping park.

The incident was filmed just after 2pm this afternoon (Tuesday, 20 August) outside the Lidl store at the Lakeside Retail Park.

Police were called via 999 and it was reported the local force helicopter was in the skies overhead soon after.

However, following publication of this story, other residents have contacted Nub News to say they have called police only to be told 'It's a non-urgent matter' and the call handler would not take details, saying 'report it on 101.'

One says she gave the police an address in West Thurrock where she believes at least one of the youth lives but was told she would have to pass on the details by reporting it online.

The youths made their getaway.

However, other residents say Police cars were spotted on the A13 watching exit roads and it is believed the three youths on one motorbike might have been heading towards Stanford.

Viewers on social media have recognised them as regular riders in the area and causers of anti-social behaviour in the east Thurrock area.

Essex Police has been asked to comment.