MASKED robbers wielding knives and hammers robbed a man of £50 in cash and left him needing hospital treatment.

Essex Police are investigating a robbery which took place late on Thursday evening, in Stanway.

The victim was walking near to a lake off Churchfields Avenue, at about 10pm, when he was attacked by at least five men, all of whom were wearing masks.

They were also carrying knives and hammers.

The victim, a man aged in his 20s, was hit on his head with a hammer.

The five attackers then set about beating their victim while he lay on the ground.

He had his wallet, £50 in cash and a gold chain taken before he was able to get away from the group.

The victim then managed to make contact with a friend who in turn called the emergency services.

He was taken to hospital with facial injuries, including a fractured eye socket, and bruising to his torso.

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An Essex Police spokesman said: “We are appealing for any witnesses who may have heard or seen anything in the area around that time.

“Unfortunately, we do not have any additional details of the attackers.

“Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information on it should submit a report online.”

Witnesses can also call Colchester CID on 101, quoting incident number 42/52637/21.

Information can be given to Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.

The attack comes just days after police issued a plea for witnesses following a robbery involving hammers and a machete in Cannon Street, Colchester.

A man, also aged in his 20s, suffered rib injuries and had a three-figure sum of cash stolen in the attack, which took place at around 10pm last Sunday