A distraught carnival princess was reduced to tears after thugs abused and threw coins at her.

Maldon's carnival procession was marred by the attack, carried out by two men who then disappeared into the crowd.

Crowds watched in dismay as the teenage Maldon princess burst into tears and the float carrying her, the queen, and the other princess was pulled out of the procession.

Insp Kevin Jacobs, who was in charge of 16 officers overseeing the day, said: "The age of these men is a real concern, and they called out to her by her first name and used offensive language."

The two men were described as being between 40 to 50 years old. The coin thrower was wearing a yellow T-shirt and cap and had a gap in his teeth. The second man was wearing a blue T-shirt and cap. Both were of a medium build.

Any witnesses or anyone with information should call PC David Underwood at Maldon police on 01621 852255.

Published Monday, August 4, 2003

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