SOUTHEND: Cyclist stabbed while fighting robbers

Detectives are appealing for information after a man was stabbed in the hand while fighting off two men who tried to rob him of his bicycle in Southend.

The incident happened at Heygate Avenue, just off Queensway, at about 1.15pm on Sunday (Aug 22).

The 35 year old victim, who is from the Westcliff area, was riding along the road when two men stopped him and asked if he wanted to sell the bike. When he declined, they both tried to pull him off the cycle.

The rider kept hold of the bike even when one of the attackers pulled out a kitchen knife and stabbed him in the hand.

The two attackers then ran off in the general direction of the High Street. The cyclist was taken to hospital where he had stitches in a cut on his hand.

Investigating DC Jo Oats said that the attackers were both white and aged in their mid-20s. One was about 5ft 6in tall and the other was about 5ft 9in. They were both wearing long sleeve hooded tops.

Anyone who saw what happened or may have information about the two men, should contact DC Oats at Southend CID on 0300 3334444 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.