A BOY was threatened with a knife before his electric scooter was stolen as he played on a popular borough park and open area.

Police are appealing for witnesses after the robbery in King George's Field, off Blackshots Lane, Grays at 4.30pm on Thursday, 11 February.

The teenage boy was at a set of swings between Bevan House and Morrison House when he was approached by a man who pulled out a knife and began running towards the victim.

The suspect then grabbed the victim's electric scooter and left the area.

A statement from police said: "The man, who is white, was wearing all dark clothing and came from the Jesmond Road direction. We believe he fled in the same direction. No arrests have been made and our enquiries are ongoing.

"We would like to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident or has information on it and urge them to submit a report online here where you can use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am and 11pm.

"You can also call us on 101 and cite crime reference 42/24756/21.

Information can also be given to independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.