CROOKS fled empty-handed after they were caught trying to break into a house.

The would-be burglars tried to get into the house in Crofton Road, Grays by forcing open the front door.

But they were overheard by the householder who opened it causing them to flee.

Police are now hunting the pair.

Both are described as white men aged around 19. One was around 5ft 11ins tall and wore a grey Nike top with a dark stripe on the shoulder and a baseball cap.

Witnesses or anyone with information about the attempted break-in, which happened at around 8.30pm on Tuesday, December 2, are asked to contact police at Grays on 0300 333 4444.