A TEENAGER was robbed of his bike at knifepoint during a "terrifying" robbery at a recreation ground in Clacton.

Three men in balaclavas threatened the 17-year-old victim with a knife during the robbery, which happened at Rush Green Recreation Ground, in Rush Green Road, on Sunday evening.

They took his tobacco and his bike during the ordeal.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "We are appealing for information after a man was threatened with a knife and robbed of his bike in Clacton.

"A man reported that he was approached by three people in Rush Green Road and threatened between 7.40pm and 7.55pm on Sunday.

"The 17-year-old reported that they pulled out a knife and demanded the contents of his bag.

"They then took his tobacco and his bike before leaving the scene."

The first suspect wore black clothing with a green hood and a black and white balaclava.

The second suspect wore an all grey tracksuit and a red balaclava and the third suspect wore a blue tracksuit and a balaclava.

Bluehouse ward councillor Mary Newton said: "It must have been terrifying - my thoughts are with the young man.

"I'm absolutely shocked that this has happened here.

"I was at the field on Monday for a litter pick and picked up a lot of nitrous oxide cannisters from the car park and I expect to find more paraphernalia.

"We have had antisocial behaviour, but nothing as serious as this recently."

Anyone with information is asked to call Clacton CID on 101 quoting crime reference 42/116312/19 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.