A gang of thugs who assaulted and robbed a pizza delivery man are being sought by police in Essex.

The attack happened at a block of flats in Porters Field, Braintree at about 11pm on Thursday, March 1.

As he stood outside the main building, the 45-year-old delivery man was approached by three masked men, believed to be aged in their teens or early 20s.

They grabbed his delivery bag containing the food and one of them pushed him, causing him to fall.

The robbers ran off with the bag, which was worth a three-figure sum of cash, down Porters Field.

The victim did not require hospital treatment but was left shaken and has injured his left leg, police said.

One of the suspects was described as white, about 4ft 10ins tall, of large build and wore a light green hooded coat and a white mask.

The second was described as white, about 5ft 6ins tall and wore a blue hooded jacket and a white mask.

The third was white, about 5ft 4ins tall and wore a white mask.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Chris Sedgwick said: “This was a nasty incident but thankfully the victim was unhurt.

“I am appealing for anyone who saw these three men in the area at the time or knows who is responsible for this incident to get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dc Sedgwick on 101 quoting crime reference 42/28799/18.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at Crimestoppers-uk.org