A robber stole cigarettes and alcohol from behind a shop counter in Little Clacton while the owner was grabbed and held by an accomplice, police have said.

Police are appealing for witnesses today after the two men walked into Harwich Road Stores, in Harwich Road, shortly before 8pm on Monday (February 1).

According to a police statement: “One went behind the counter and grabbed the shop owner while the second suspect stole alcohol and cigarettes and ran off.

“The victim struggled with the first suspect, who then also ran off.

“Both men are believed to have got into a small black car parked outside.”

Officers carried out a search of the area and enquiries are ongoing to locate the suspects.

The first was described as white, of slim build and about 5ft 5ins tall. He wore a dark jacket with the hood up and a dark hat.

The second man was white, aged about 28 to 30 years old, of slim build and about 5ft 5ins tall. He wore a dark jacket, possibly with a hood and a dark woollen hat.

Anyone with information was asked to contact Clacton CID on 101.

Alternatively, they can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org