A SHOP worker was left badly bleeding after his attacker threw a stone at his head.

Essex Police said the victim, who was working at Martin’s newsagent in Hunwicke Road, Greenstead, Colchester, could have suffered a serious injury.

The seemingly random attack happened while the worker was covering another employee’s shift, around 6pm on Monday. The man did not go to hospital but was left in shock, a police spokesman said.

He added: “It had hit him on the head and did cause significant bleeding.

“He did not need to call an ambulance but did take some time to recover.

“The victim could have suffered a very serious injury from this attack and police are taking it very seriously.

“They are anxious to find the person who did this to ensure they don’t do it again.”

The spokesman said the victim had not provided a description of his attacker.

Martin’s newsagent confirmed it was aware of the incident but declined to comment.

Witnesses or anyone with information are urged to contact Essex Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.