FAMILIES are still waiting for justice after an armed man threatened and beat their children with a gun.

Police have re-launched an appeal today six months after trick and treating children were threatened with the firearm near the Tesco supermarket on Halloween - October 31.

A man was arrested soon after but has since been released without charge.

The incident took place shortly after 8.30pm when officers found two teenage boys who had been confronted by the armed man, one of which was then beaten with the gun around the head and legs.

A teenage girl was also present.

The offender made repeated threats before fleeing the scene.

Anyone with information call Colchester police station on 101.

See the full story in Wednesday's Gazette.