“DESPERATE” robbers targeted a charity shop escaping with cash and assaulting staff.

Two men entered the Emmaus Home charity shop in Colchester High Street at 3.30pm on Friday, January 24.

While one distracted a member of staff the other opened the till and stole £180.

But as the thieves were trying to make their getaway the employee tried to stop them - she was hit and pushed to the floor.

Acting Detective Sergeant Pete Coley, of Colchester CID said: "These were clearly two desperate thieves who have targeted a charity.

“When fleeing with the money they have then not hesitated to assault the brave staff member who has tried to thwart their escape.

“Thankfully her injuries are minor.

"We are determined to find these men and get them arrested.

“We urgently need to hear from witnesses who were in the area of Colchester High Street that day who might have seen the thieves running from the scene.”

The first man is described as white, around 5ft 5in tall, of stocky build with a chubby face. He was wearing a beige beanie hat with a navy blue or black line round the rim, a beige long sleeved polo shirt, blue jeans and dirty white trainers. He was also carrying a black carrier bag.

The second man was said to be white, 5ft 2in tall, of thin build, with dark hair that came over his ears. He was wearing a blue knitted jumper, blue jeans and black trainers.

Anyone with information is asked to call Colchester CID on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.