Two youngsters believed to be sleeping rough in Pitsea were today being hunted by police after a string of serious assaults.

The teenagers, aged around 15, disappeared from their nearby homes two weeks ago.

Officers want to speak to them in connection with two assaults each on two students which took place within four days.

The victims, aged 16 and 17 and from Pitsea, have been left with head and facial injuries as a result of the attacks.

One of the boys also had his glasses broken in one of the assaults leaving him with a £180 bill to replace them.

The attacks took place on March 6, 7, 9 and 15.

PC Richard Marriot, of Pitsea police, said: "These reported incidents are of a serious nature and the problem is on-going.

"The targets of the crimes are vulnerable individuals."

He added that both boys are thought to be hanging around the Chalvedon area and there is information to suggest they are living in a make-shift camp or garage in Pitsea.

One of the teenagers is white, slim, 5ft 8ins tall and has dark curtain-style hair.

He has been seen wearing a dark jacket and light trousers.

His friend is white, slightly shorter and has light brown or blonde cropped hair.

He was wearing a hat.

If you have information on where they are living, call PC Marriot on 01268 584212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

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