POLICE are appealing for the public's help following an incident when a 15-year-old boy was assaulted and have issued a widespread appeal across mid Essex.

A statement from Essex Police says: "We were called to Dengie Hundred Sports Centre at Millfields, in Burnham-on-Crouch, at around 9pm on Sunday, 24 July following reports of a 15-year-old boy being assaulted.

 "The victim was in the basketball court when he was approached by a man and assaulted. He was taken to hospital with cuts and bruises which required treatment. 

"The suspect is described as a white man, around 21-years-old and of a skinny build. He had short, black sweeping hair and was wearing a West Ham football shirt and blue jeans. 

"We are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this assault or have any further information to contact us. 

"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am and 9pm.

"Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services. Alternatively you can call us on 101.

"If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity @CrimestoppersUK, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.

"Please quote incident 1454 of 24 July when providing any information to make sure it gets to the right person as quickly as possible."