A CCTV image has been released in connection with a “shocking incident” in north Essex in which a man is said to have stolen a van and deliberately hit three vehicles, including a police car.

Essex Police want to speak to the man pictured after an alleged vehicle theft in Centenary Way, Clacton, on Tuesday.

A man stole a silver Ford Transit van and hit a police car as well as two belonging to members of the public.

Sgt Colin Shead at Stanway Roads Policing Unit said: “This was a shocking incident whereby a person deliberately hit not only a police car but also two other cars belonging to members of the public.

“We take a zero tolerance stance on incidents where people’s safety is put at risk and we will find this suspect.”

Anyone with information about the incident or who recognises the man from the CCTV image is asked to call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.