A businessman told how he was left bloodied by a random beating.
Craig Rimmer, 29, of Partridge Green, Pitsea, was on his way home from work when he was set upon by eight yobs who tried to grab his briefcase.
In the past year, Mr Rimmer has been threatened and spat at - but this was the worst incident yet.
As he approached the group in the High Road, they parted to allow him through but as soon as his back was turned, one of them tried to take his briefcase.
He managed to keep hold of it but then three members of the gang started punching him in the face.
They then ran off, leaving him bleeding heavily.
The yobs have been described as white and were wearing tracksuits.
If anyone has any information about the incident on Tuesday at 6.50pm, call Pitsea police on 01268 584212.
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