Police are appealing for witnesses following two knifepoint robberies that may be linked.

The first robbery happened at around 6.50pm on Saturday near a Robert Dyas store in High Road, Loughton.

A 12-year-old boy was with two friends when he was approached by a man who produced a knife and demanded the boy's phone.

The victim handed over his phone and the man fled.

The suspect is described as being around 20-years-old, mixed race, with black hair, carrying a man bag and wearing a black puffa jacket.

The second incident happened at around 7.50pm on Sunday in Station Road, Loughton.

A 15-year-old boy from Chigwell was walking towards Nandos from Loughton tube station when he was approached by a man asking where the nearest bus station was.

The suspect then asked the victim what phone he had before producing a knife.

The victim handed over the phone before the man walked away towards the station.

The suspect is described as black, aged between 19 and 21 and was wearing a black baseball cap, black leather jacket, black jogging bottoms and was carrying a man bag. 

Investigating officer PC James Smith of Loughton CID said: "We are making enquiries into both incidents and we believe they may be linked.

"I would ask anyone with any information or anyone who may have witnessed what happened to come forward and speak to me.”

Anybody with any information is asked to contact PC James Smith at Loughton CID on 101. or to call police anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.