THUGS jumped out of van and attacked a pensioner with a lump of wood as they tried to steal his dog in broad daylight.

Essex Police is appealing for information after reports of a robbery in Albion Road, in Benfleet, at around 11.10am today.

The victim reported that he was struck on the head with a lump of wood.

This was after he refused to hand over his dog to two men who had jumped out of a white Ford Connect Van.

Thankfully, the victim sustained minor injuries, and the dog was unharmed, as they managed to get away.

Andrew Sheldon, Essex County Council councillor responsible for South Benfleet, said: “This is very disturbing to hear.

“There are lot of dog owners in Benfleet including myself, who I am sure will find this very worrying, particularly that it happened in broad daylight too.

“We need to catch these men, whoever they are.

“So, if anyone has seen anything, please do come forward police.”

It is believed the victim was a pensioner, and the breed of the dog was a Cocker Spaniel.

Taking to social media, his wife revealed the couple are shaken by the incident and are now too scared to walk their dog alone.

A spokesman for Essex Police added: "We are appealing for the public’s help following a robbery in Benfleet. 

“It was reported that a man was assaulted as he walked along Albion Road in Benfleet at around 11.10am on Tuesday, March 19. 

“The victim reported that he was struck on the head with a lump of wood after he refused to hand over his dog to two men who then drove off in a white Ford Connect van.

“The victim sustained minor injuries and the dog was thankfully unharmed. 

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

“Please quote incident 385 of 19 March when providing any information to make sure it gets to the right person as quickly as possible.”

Alternatively, you can contact the independent crimefighting charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.