MORE police officers will be on patrol in Colchester after a spate of robberies yesterday.

Until Sunday night there will be extra patrols in the Hythe area and New Town.

Yesterday police were called to four incidents.

The first incident in Hickory Avenue happened shortly before 11pm when a man was approached by a group of around ten to 15 men.

One of the men produced a knife and demanded money from the victim who pushed the suspect away and ran away.

Nothing was stolen.

A man's wallet and phone was stolen at Hythe station when two men, who were with a pair of women, produced a knife, shortly after 1.30am.

Another man also had his phone stolen after being approached by five or six boys in Winnock Road, at about 2.15am.

Another man was also approached by armed men but managed to escape.

It happened just after 2.30am in Hythe Hill.

Fortunately no one was injured in any of these incidents.

Detective Chief Inspector Leighton Hammett said: "We have a zero tolerance stance on this type of behaviour and these incidents are not acceptable.

"Our detectives are working with the victims in each incident to identify the suspects involved.

"There will be dedicated patrols in these areas over the weekend to ensure the safety of the community.

"If anyone sees anything suspicious or has any information please contact Colchester police station on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."