A TAKEAWAY shop assistant has spoken of his horror at being attacked by a gang of men who then stole £2,000 of takings and wages and drove off in his car.

Mohammad Ghafar, 22, and his 15-year-old nephew Ali had just left the Chicken Shop in Eastern Esplanade, Southend and got into their car parked in Beach Road.

Mr Ghafar started his Toyota Yaris then four men then appeared and urinated over the bonnet.

He said: "All four then came to the drivers side and pulled me out of the car. They were kicking and punching me - I'm not sure how many times. I shouted at Ali to get out and call police and he ran towards the shop.

"A friend of mine who had been inside and already heard the noise came out to help but one of them punched him in the back of the neck."

Anyone with information is urged to call Southend police on 01702 431212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.