Two men have been arrested in connection with a burglary in which a 72-year-old woman was assaulted.

Two suspects broke into a home in Creephedge Lane, East Hanningfield, shortly before 4.30am on May 16 and assaulted the homeowner.

She suffered a head injury and was taken to Broomfield Hospital. She has since been discharged from hospital and is being cared for by her family.

A 40-year-old man from Canvey has since been arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary and theft and a 28-year-old man from Westcliff has been arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary.

Both have been released on bail until June 17, pending further enquiries.

A large quantity of jewellery and watches were stolen from the victim’s home, along with an air weapon.

Some of these items were later recovered in Bicknacre and detectives are keen to hear from anyone who saw a group of men acting suspiciously in the Augustine Way area of the village between 4am and 5am on Tuesday May 16.

They are also continuing to appeal for witnesses who saw anyone in the Creephedge Lane area of East Hanningfield at the time of the incident.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Serious and Organised Crime Unit on 101.

Alternatively, contact independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org.