Police have appealed for information about an assault at Wickford in which a 13-year-old boy was pushed over and repeatedly kicked in the face and back.

The boy was teased and taunted by three youths before being pushed to the ground. He suffered a split lip, cracked tooth, bruising and scratches but did not require hospital treatment.

The incident happened at Nevendon Park in Nevendon Road at about 1.15pm on Sunday August 24.

Investigating officer Pc Julie Dawes said: "This was a really nasty and vicious incident in which a boy was picked on and repeatedly assaulted for no apparent reason. His mum is now petrified to let him out of her sight.

"Many local people have heard about this incident but despite extensive enquiries we have not been able to identify the three boys involved. We believe that they are all aged between 13 and 15.”

Anyone with information should contact Pc Dawes at Billericay police station on 101 or email julie.dawes@essex.pnn.police.uk