THE Tesco Express store on King Street in. Stanford-le-Hope, was temporarily closed this afternoon (Thursday, 2 January) after a member of staff was assaulted.

Police are probing the incident and have issued a plea for information.

An eye-witness in the store at the time says: "I was in the when it happened the poor lady who works there was beaten up by a drunk woman.

"The lady worker didn't look too good bless her. I hope she is OK."

A police statement to Thurrock Nub News says: "The victim, a woman in her 30s, called us from the Kings Parade store at 3pm after she had been punched in the face by another woman.

"The level of injury to the victim is unknown at this time.

"The assailant then left the store on foot. She has been described as being white, aged between her mid-40s and early 50s, and had shoulder-length black hair. She is believed to be around 5ft 4ins tall and wore a black coat.

"Anyone with information is asked to call us on 101 quoting the crime reference number 42/809/20. "