A shopworker was twice assaulted after asking customers to prove their age in two seperate incidents.

According to reports, the man had asked for identification before selling cigarettes at the shop in Highbridge Street, Waltham Abbey, but was subsequently assaulted by two men. 

The first assault, at 4.30pm, was by a teenager described as white and in his late teens who left the shopkeeper with leg and facial injuries.

An hour later, the victim was punched in the face by a different, older man described as white and of a large build, causing further facial injuries.

Police are currently investigating the incidents.