A CYCLIST foiled a robber's attempt to steal a teenager's mobile phone.

A 16-year-old boy was at Mackley Drive near to the junction with Lyndhurst Road in Corringham shortly before 7pm on Friday, June 13, when a man grabbed him by the shoulders.

The man ordered the Corringham teen to hand over his phone, which he was using at the time.

The youngster refused and the man legged it - empty handed - when a passing cyclist stopped to help.

A 28-year-old man from Stanford-le-Hope was arrested on suspicion of robbery and has been bailed until June, 22 while police continue to investigate the incident.

The force is urging any witnesses to contact the investigating officer Dc Grant Welbourne at Grays CID on 101.