A MAN with learning disabilities was brutally set upon by robbers, twice in a month.

He was first attacked in an alleyway, off Southchurch Road, Southend, and sustained a broken nose.

The 25-year-old was approached by a thug, who punched him in the face and grabbed his mobile phone, before running off, at about 2.25pm, on Friday, May 28.

The second attack took place in Central Avenue, Southend, when he was approached by a man who tried to steal his new phone.

When the victim tried to move it out of reach, he was bitten on the cheek.

He decided not to resist further and gave up the phone to the crook, who ran off, at about 7.15pm, on Sunday, June 13.

Police are not connecting the attacks and believe the victim, from Leigh, has just been unlucky.

Det Con Carrieanne Snell, of Southend police, said: “These were vicious assaults against a vulnerable victim and we are very keen to identify and locate the suspects.

“I would urge anyone with information regarding either robbery, both of which occurred in broad daylight in very busy roads, to please come forward.”

The victim was able to give a description of the second attacker as a white man, aged 17 to 18. He was slim and was wearing a black hoodie and dark blue jogging bottoms. He was riding a black BMX bike.

Anyone with information should call Det Con Snell on 0300 3334444.