POLICE are investigating after a boy was assaulted and robbed in Grays.

The incident happened on Monday close to the town's rail station. and the father of the 12-year-old says the incident has left his son traumatised.

A spokesperson for Essex Police said: "We were called at around 5pm on Monday January 13, about a robbery close at a taxi rank outside Grays train station.

"We received a call from a third party after a 12-year-old boy reported that he was approached by a group of people in Crown Road before having his phone, watch and wallet taken.

"Anyone with information is asked to call 42/6904/20 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

Ward councillors Martin Kerin, Tony Fish and Jane Pothecary have issued a joint statement in the wake of the incident.

It reads: "Once again, we are seeing an incident of violence on the streets of Grays Town Centre.

"This is why many of our residents tell us that they avoid this area at night.

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"If we are to rejuvenate our town centre, people need to feel safe and confident enough to use it.

"Thurrock Council needs to work with Essex Police to combat growing menace of crime and antisocial behaviour."