A Romford man was arrested on suspicion of robbery after a man was knocked to the ground and a box of hot chicken was stolen from him.

The incident took place in Priory Avenue, Southend, around 1.20am on Tuesday.

Pc Simon Laurie of Rayleigh CID said: “What was stolen in this robbery is immaterial. The fact remains that an innocent member of the public was assaulted and set upon for no reason.”

The 19-year-old arrested is due to answer bail next month.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Pc Laurie at Essex Police on 101.