Police hunting robbers who attacked a flower seller today told how the victim risked his life by running into a busy road to escape.

Luckily, the 19-year-old was uninjured in the incident but detectives say they are very concerned.

The teenager was robbed of his mobile phone and wallet containing cash in full view of drivers using the busy Nevendon Road in Wickford.

The robbery, at 4pm on Sunday, came a week after a 16-year-old boy manning the same stall was robbed by two men brandishing a knife.

It is not clear if the robberies were carried out by the same people.

Detectives are appealing for any witnesses to come forward, particularly a man and woman in a silver Vauxhall Vectra, who stopped to help the victim.

Anyone with information, which will be treated confidentially, can contact Basildon CID on 01268 244009.

Published Tuesday January 20, 2004

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