Detectives investigating an attempted robbery on New Year's Day have released an efit image of the main suspect. 

The assault on two teenagers happened in Paringdon Road, Harlow, between 1am and 1.30am, after two men approached a group of five friends who had been out celebrating.  

Essex Police say the men initially asked for a cigarette but then demanded that the three men and two women hand over their phones and empty their pockets. 

When they refused, an 18-year-old man from Chingford was struck on the head with a "long object" and a 17-year-old man from Harlow was hit on the chin. 

The attackers then ran off empty-handed. 

The teenager from Chingford was taken to a nearby hospital, where he was treated for cuts to his head.  

His attacker is described as white, bald, around 6ft, aged between 20 and 30 and of a skinny build.

He was wearing a beanie-style hat and a padded jacket. 

His accomplice was white and wearing a hooded top. 

Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Constable Jo Lanz at Harlow Police Station on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.