Police are appealing for information following a street robbery in Colchester.

A mobile phone and a small quantity of cash were taken from a man in his twenties, who was walking along Abbotts Road, at about 9.30pm on Monday night.

The man was approached by two men who are believed to have been carrying a knife and an object which looked like a gun.

The first man is described as white, about 6ft 2ins, of medium build and wearing a black scarf over his lower face. He was also wearing a dark blue or black hoodie which was pulled over his forehead and part of his eyes. He is thought to have been carrying a firearm which is described as being black and around 10 to 12ins in length.

The second man was also white and wearing a black scarf over his face. He was of average build, around 5ft 8ins, around 30-years-old and was wearing a bright blue jacket with a hood. He was seen carrying a blade.

Ds Kim Sartini-Hawe said: “This sort of crime is very rare, particularly in Colchester so residents should be reassured that the area is still a safe place to live.

“Officers are currently carrying out enquiries and we are keen to here from anyone who may be able to help with the investigation.

“The victim has understandably been left shaken by this incident. If you saw or heard anything suspicious that evening, please get in touch,” she added.

Ds Kim Sartini-Hawe can be contacted at Colchester police station on 0300 333 4444 or anonymously on Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.