A 12-year-old boy and his father were held at knife point at a convenience store in Westcliff.

The man entered the shop wielding a knife subsequently locking the shop keeper, a man, his son and another shopped inside.

Police were called to the Mayfair News convenience store on Fairfax Drive, Westcliff shortly before 9pm on Tuesday.

The boy’s mother posted on Facebook about the traumatising ordeal. She said: “Stay away from Fairfax Drive Premier - they’ve just been held up at knife point. The police have been called.

"He was carrying a large knife. My son and his dad were locked in the shop with another man. The shop keeper ran.

“Please all share this post and stay away from Fairfax Drive, the man is heading towards Fairfax park still with a big knife. Please all stay inside. He was wearing baggy clothing and a tartan scarf.”

Both the man and his son are said to be “shaken” but unharmed.

A spokesperson from Essex Police said: “We were called to a report of an attempted robbery in Fairfax Drive, Westcliff, shortly before 9pm on Tuesday, October 17.

“A man has entered Mayfair News carrying what is believed to be a knife and threatened staff.

“He demanded cigarettes, alcohol and money.

“The man left the store without any items and no one was injured.

“Suspect is described as being 5ft 10in tall, aged in his 20s or 30s. He was wearing a khaki coat, khaki trousers and had a tartan scarf covering his face. The man was also carrying a black bag.”

Witnesses or anyone with information are asked to contact Southend CID on 101 or you can report crimes anonymously to the crime fighting charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org to fill in an online form.