POLICE believe whiskey and toys stolen during a gunpoint robbery are being sold across Basildon and Thurrock.

Detectives have now issued pictures of the imported American Wild Turkey bourbon and toy snails, identical to those taken during the hold-up.

Officers have already recovered 100 cases of the drink and a box of the Beanstalk Activity toys, which were being delivered to Argos.

But police are still hunting another 1,400 cases of the stolen whiskey and a whole container of toys, together worth tens of thousands of pounds.

Investigating officer Det Con Kelly Allen said: “This haul is unusual and very distinctive.

“We are convinced they are still in the area and might be offered cheaply at boot sales or markets.

“The bourbon is an unusual American brand not found in many shops over here. We also want to hear from anyone with information about the robbery.”

The lorry driver had stopped at the Moto Services on the M25, at Thurrock, in the early hours of Wednesday, November 5, when he was threatened at gunpoint by the two raiders.

They made him drive to a lay-by, on the B184 between Ongar and Fyfield, where they tied him up and stole his load before fleeing, leaving him stranded.

Anyone with information about the robbery, or the stolen items, can contact Det Con Allen on 0300 3334444 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 5551111.

Kli> A 49-year-old man from Wickford was arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods in connection with the robbery. He has been released on bail until March 3.