A CONCERNED councillor has said "we must get these people off our streets" after a weapon-wielding thug attack a man in a Colchester beauty spot.

Essex Police officers have launched an investigation into an attempted robbery which took place in Castle Park on November 2.

The force understands a man in his 30s had been strolling through the historic green space near a duck pond at about 9pm when he was approached by another man.

The attacker, said to be white, in his 40s, and 6ft tall, then threatened him with what has been described to officers as a baton, before demanding the man hand over his money.

The victim was subsequently struck with the weapon but thankfully managed to get away from the preparator without having any of his valuables snatched.

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Gazette:

Mark Goacher, Colchester councillor for the Castle ward, said: “Obviously I would like to think this is a rare incident but we need to get these people off our streets.

“If they are going around threatening people with batons then that is serious mugging, so we need to be more vigilant and careful, especially when walking through the park at night.

“I encourage anyone who has any information to give it to the police so we can get this character caught as soon as possible so they can be dealt with.”

Essex Police’s investigating officers have now launched an appeal for information.

Gazette: The Gazette understand this is the pond near to where the attack took placeThe Gazette understand this is the pond near to where the attack took place (Image: Newsquest)

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “The attacker has been described as wearing a dark-coloured hooded top with a denim jacket over the top, dark jeans, and white trainers.

“If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.

“You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service Monday to Friday between 10am-9pm.

“Alternatively, you can call us on 101. Please quote the crime reference number 42/271200/22

"In an emergency always call 999. If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111."