Police are hunting two car thieves who crashed a stolen car and fled after a police chase.

Officers were called at 2pm on Friday with reports that a stolen vehicle was seen being driven by two Asian men in the area of Abbotsmead in Heybridge.

Officers chased the blue Mazda to Cromwell Road where the occupants fled after striking a white Mercedes C Class.

The police helicopter helped with the search but found no trace.

The Mazda has been returned to its owner.

Anyone with information can contact Essex Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.