Yobs threw a brick at a mosque in a suspected 'hate crime.'

The incident happened at The UK Islamic Mission Mosque, West Road, Westcliff.

Officers say they are working hard to support the Muslim community.

Ian Hughes, Southend Community Policing Team Inspector, said: "We have been working closely with the 3 mosques located in Southend on the run up to Ramadan, understandably this incident has caused concern amongst the Muslim community especially since the terrible incidents that have been witnessed internationally.

"This is an isolated incident committed by an unknown suspect at this time, we have met with the Imam and increased our patrols in order to provide the Muslim community with support and reassurance that this type of behaviour will not be tolerated, enquiries continue.

"If you have any information about this incident, please contact Essex Police via 101 or crime stoppers 0800555111 and quote crime ref 42/69952/19."

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "We were called with reports of a religiously aggravated criminal damage incident in Westcliff on Saturday, May 4.

"It was reported that shortly after 1am, a brick had been thrown through the window of a Mosque on West Road.

"Anyone who was in the area around the time and witnessed the incident or any suspicious behaviour are asked to contact the Southend Community Policing Team on 101, quoting crime reference number: 42/69952/19.

"Information can also be given completely anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org"