A vicar suffered a broken jaw after a “nasty and unprovoked” attack as he made his way to church.

James Hore

AN ESSEX vicar has suffered a broken jaw after a “nasty and unprovoked” attack as he made his way to church.

The Rev Guy Thorburn was heading towards St John's Church in Clacton when he was approached by two teenagers in Valley Road.

One of the two youths assaulted the vicar, who was wearing his dog collar, leaving him with a broken jaw.

The yob then made off on a bike.

Mr Thornburn was taken to Colchester General Hospital where he was treated for his injuries before being discharged.

Police have said the assault on Saturday evening was totally unprovoked, confirming it was not a failed attempt at a mugging.

He today declined to speak about the incident but Inspector Kevan Griggs said: “This was a particularly nasty and unprovoked assault on a member of the clergy.

“Fortunately incidents like this are very rare in Clacton.”

Police are appealing for the public's help following the assault which took place at about 8.45pm last Saturday.

The attacker was white, aged 17 to 18 with fair curly hair, about 5ft 9ins tall, slim build and wearing a light coloured top.

Anyone with information, or who recognises the youth from the description, is asked to contact Clacton CID on 0300 333 4444 or information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.