A KNIFE was held to a girl's throat before four robbers drove off in three cars belonging to their victims.

The robbers struck late last night (Wednesday) when they targeted a group of 14 youths in High Beech.

Police said the four robbers - three black men and one man who was white or of mixed heritage - got out of a silver-coloured vehicle opposite the Church of the Holy Innocents at 11pm nd approached the youths who were in a group with three cars between Cross Road and Reservoir Road.

A police spokesman said the group demanded property, including the keys to the three cars.

A knife was held to the throat of a girl before the men drove off in their own vehicle and the three other cars - a black Ford Fiesta, a grey VW Golf and a red Renault Clio.

Mobile phones, ipods, Oyster cards and jewellery were also stolen.

Anyone with any information is asked to ring Loughton Police Station on 020 8502 3881. Information can also be given to Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Were you among the group who were robbed?

Ring our newsdesk on 01992 563104, text brief details to 07824 530131 or email djackman@london.newsquest.co.uk