Police are appealing for information following an attempted robbery in Basildon.

The victim, a 37-year-old man, was in Waverley Road at about 11.10am on Thursday, December 5, when they were approached by a man.

He asked the victim for cigarettes and change, and the victim could see a metal object in his hand. The victim, who is from the Basildon area, refused and walked away.

The suspect is described as a white man, aged about 40, and skinny. He had long dark hair and was wearing a long dark coat and blue cap.

Anyone with information is urged to contact PC Jonathan Danby, or his colleagues at Basildon, on 101. Alternatively, call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.