A TEENAGE boy was threatened with a knife in a terrifying daylight town centre robbery.

The victim, a boy aged 17, was approached by a group of men in George Street, Colchester, which is just yards away from the High Street.

They threatened him with the blade and managed to get away with cash.

Witnesses said they saw the group hold a knife to the victim’s neck before two members of the group fled towards Red Lion Walk and others ran into the Dutch Quarter.

Daniel, 20, was working in the High Street at the time and heard about the incident on the Townlink radio system used by businesses.

He said: “I was about to leave when I heard a radio from the George Hotel saying police assistance was required because someone was being held up against a wall with a knife.

“The police response was really quick.

“Within five minutes of it being called in there were three police cars there and forensics were there within ten minutes.”

Police launched an investigation after the incident which happened at 4.40pm on Thursday.

Three men have been arrested in connection with the robbery. A 35 year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of robbery, a 21 year-old has been arrested on suspicion of robbery and possession of Class A drugs, and a 24 year-old has been arrested on suspicion of robbery and assault. They all remain in custody.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the robbery.

Anyone with information about the incident should call Colchester Police on 101 quoting the crime reference number 42/72481/18 or Crimestoppers on 101.