POLICE are launching a fresh appeal for information on an attempted armed robbery on Canvey.

Two thugs targeted Bargain Booze on Long Road at about 9.30pm on December 23. While one man waited outside and guarded the door, the other entered the shop and threatened staff inside with a knife.

He demanded money but the shop worker, who was repairing a door at the time, threw a spanner he was holding and both suspects fled empty handed.

Pc Ben Freeman, of Southend CID, said: "One suspect ran down Long Road towards the King Canute pub and the other ran into Grassmere. The suspect who ran into Grassmere then ran out again towards the town centre.

“Both of them were wearing black beanie type hats, with black scarves over their faces and gloves. One of them was wearing a purple jacket and jeans, the other a black jumper and grey jogging bottoms.”

Both suspects are white and in their late teens. Police carried out house-to-house enquiries in the area and investigations continue.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Pc Freeman at Southend CID on 101. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.