Two cyclists have been attacked by people in cars near Essex petrol stations – including one who was hit with a suspected bat.

Essex Police said the first assault happened in Old Road, Clacton, sometime between 4-5am on Sunday, September 30.

The victim was cycling away from the Shell garage at the junction with Olivers Road, heading in the direction of St Andrew Road, when two vehicles pulled up alongside him. Two people got out, demanded cash before attacking him and fleeing.

Around the same time, another cyclist was also heading along Old Road, this time from the Esso garage towards Great Clacton, when a car pulled up alongside him, forcing him into the site of the road, where he was hit with what is believed to have been a bat.

Police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

People are asked to call Essex Police on 101 quoting the crime reference number 42/141732/18 or 42/141848/18.

Alternatively people can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.