A store detective was attacked with a knife in broad daylight as he tackled two suspected shoplifters.

The worker confronted the two men at about 4.30pm on Monday in Woolworths in High Street, Maldon.

One of the men pulled a knife and the store detective received wounds to the back of his head and one of his eyes. The attackers then ran off towards the White Horse car park, behind the shop.

The injured man - who has not been named - was taken to Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford.

Sergeant Richard Miller of Maldon police said the incident was a "shocking thing" to happen in the town.

"We are not sure if anything had been stolen from the shop but certainly the store detective acted on something he had seen and followed them out.

"It is not something we would expect in a place like Maldon. We are very keen to catch these men."

Woolworths praised the store detective. A spokesman said: "It is a very upsetting incident."

Sgt Miller said the attack happened at a time when there could be a lot of witnesses. He urged anyone who saw the incident to come forward.

The knifeman is about 25, 5ft 8ins, skinny with short fair hair. He wore a dark leather jacket and dark trousers.

The second man is 30 to 35, stocky, with slightly shorter balding light-coloured hair. He wore a dark puffed jacket and dark trousers.

Anyone who can help should contact the police on 01621 852255 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

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