Police are appealing for witnesses after a woman was threatened during an attempted robbery in Panfield Lane in Braintree on Monday (January 18).

The victim was walking her dog at around 8.30pm to 8.40pm when she was approached by a man who demanded she hand over everything she had.

He then lifted his top to show what appeared to be a gun tucked into his waistband.

The woman, in her 50s, was not carrying any valuables and the man ran off in the direction of Kings Road and Churchill Road.

Investigating officer Dc Mike Pannell said: “This man was seen peering into parked cars shortly before he confronted the victim.

“He was 5ft 5in to 5ft 6in tall and had a scarf wrapped around his face and head.

“He had come from an alleyway which connects through from Panfield Lane to Bailey Bridge Lane.

“Immediately after the confrontation the victim spoke to two women joggers before she then went to a nearby house to raise the alarm.

“I would be interested to hear from anyone who may have seen this man either before or after this robbery.

“The victim was not physically hurt and we do not know if the weapon seen was real but this was an incredibly shocking experience for her and we want to catch this man as soon as possible.”

An appeal was originally made for the two joggers to come forward. They have since spoken to police.

Anyone with information is asked to call Dc Pannell at Braintree CID on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

It offers rewards of up to £1,000 for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of offenders.