POLICE are investigating an assault in Basildon where where they believe a man was struck over the head with an object - and they have called on the public for information.

The incident happened in Luncies Road shortly after midnight this morning (Sunday, 2 June).

A statement from Essex Police says: "A man in his 30s had sustained an injury to his head from what we believe may have been an object like a cosh.

"His injuries are not believed to life-threatening but he has broken bones around his cheeks.

"It was reported the man had been standing in Luncies Road when a car pulled up and three men – two of which are described as wearing balaclavas and the other as having his hood up – got out and attacked him.

Detective Sergeant Sandy Kelleher, from Basildon CID, said: "We are working to build up a picture of the circumstances around this assault and why the man was attacked.

"Part of our investigation includes whether this incident is linked to an assault inside the Winged Horse pub at around 11.40pm on the same night.

"I need anyone who saw, or has any information, about either incident to contact us.

"I know this will be concern our community but this type of incident is rare and both violent crime has fallen in Basildon over the last year."

If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.

Please quote the crime reference number 42/84785/24.

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-9pm.

Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services.

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