POLICE want to identify this man in connection with two assaults and a robbery in Southend.

The incidents happened after about 11.55pm on May 2 when a group of about six teenagers were walking along Eastcote Grove, having just left the McDonalds on Eastern Avenue.

A man approached one member of the group, punched him to the face, and stole his mobile phone, leaving the teenager with facial injuries.

Immediately after the robbery, two more teenage boys were assaulted by what is believed to be the same man.

They were hit to the back of the head with a bottle, with one of the boys suffering a cut to the head, while the other was not injured - the suspect then fled the area on foot.

He is described as a black man, about 6ft tall and of medium build. He was wearing a dark hooded top with a black body warmer over it.

Investigating officer Det Con Andy Copley said: "This incident was totally unprovoked and was a nasty attack on the teenagers who were confronted by an extremely aggressive man.

“I would like to speak to anyone who has any knowledge of the incident or who is able to give me information about who the suspect might be."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Det Con Copley or his colleagues at Southend CID on 101.

Information can also be given to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org