A 25-year-old woman was punched by a man in Clacton after he tried to steal her mobile phone while riding a bicycle.

Essex Police are appealing for witnesses following the incident, which took place in an alleyway between Upper Branston Road and Elthorne Park shortly after 9am on Monday, November 27.

A man, riding a black bicycle, rode up behind the victim and attempted to grab her mobile phone from her hand.

After he was unsuccessful in his attempt, he then punched the woman in the face before riding off back into Upper Branston Road.

The man is described as white, with dark hair, and was wearing black tracksuit bottoms, a black puffa jacket and white Adidas trainers.

Witnesses or anyone with information are asked to contact Dc Andy Dodd at Clacton CID on 101.

Alternatively, people can contact independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org