POLICE are hunting a gang of youths who tried to rob a man in a wheelchair.

The incident happened in Rayleigh Road, Benfleet, at about 10pm on August 22.

The man, in his 50s, was hit on the head and only saved when members of the public intervened.

An Essex Police spokesman said: “The victim was traveling back from the petrol station at 10pm and was stuck over the back of the head by a youth wearing a hooded top who was part of a group of five that emerged from the nearby West Woods.

“The five youths, said to be between 16 and 20 years old attempted to steal the man’s bag which was on the side of his wheelchair and contained his wallet.

“Two cars pulled up and sounded their horns making the suspects stop and run back into West Woods. Nothing was stolen.”

Police want to speak to drivers or passengers of the two cars who intervened.

Anyone with information should call Rayleigh police station on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.