A DAD says he is scared to leave his home after being robbed and beaten by two thugs.

Darren McDonald, 36, was attacked in broad daylight as he walked home from Braintree town centre after ordering anniversary presents for his wife.

The attack, which left him with mild concussion and bruised ribs, took place in Station Approach, near his Riverside Place home.

Mr McDonald said: “I heard someone shout out ‘Get him’ but I didn’t think anything of it.

“But then I was thumped on the back of the head and they started kicking me in the right side.

“I tried to fight them off and throw a few punches back but in the end I just put my arms over my head and just let them do what they wanted and get it over with.”

The two thieves stole £80 from the dispatch co-ordinator. Mr McDonald says the frightening ordeal has left him and his children afraid to leave their home.

He said: “I’m scared to go out and so are my two children.

“Even going down the stairs from my flat when I leave for work I have to call my wife and stay on the phone until I get to my car.

“I just think they’re scumbags.

“I’ve worked all my life but they would rather go out and attack people in broad daylight than go to work.

“I’m glad it wasn’t someone older who might not be able to recover from something like this.

“I suppose I’m lucky they didn’t pull out a knife.”

After the attack the thieves made off in the direction of the railway station car park on Station Approach.

Police officers searched the area but were unable to find the men.

The assault happened at around 12.45pm on Saturday, May 11.

The first man involved is described as being white and of heavier build.

It is believed he is between 5ft 9in and 5ft 11in tall. He was wearing a burgundy hooded jumper.

The second man was also white, of slim build, and around 6ft 1in tall. He wore all black.

Anyone with information should call Braintree’s local policing team on 101 with information and quote crime reference number 42/73598/19 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.