POLICE in Essex are hunting a pair of robbers suspected of stabbing two men with hunting knives during a raid on a flat.

POLICE in Essex are hunting a pair of robbers suspected of stabbing two men with hunting knives during a raid on a flat.

Detectives in Colchester are appealing for information after the men received stab wounds at a flat in Montgomery Close.

The robbers forced their way into the flat at around 8.15pm yesterday evening and demanded cash from the men, both in their 20s.

A struggle ensued and both victims suffered stab wounds to their arms and back for which they were treated at Colchester hospital.

In the course of the struggle one of the suspects was bitten on the cheek before both fled the scene empty handed.

Police found two knives in the flat which will be forensically examined.

One of the suspects, who was bitten in the struggle and may have a visible mark on his cheek, is described as black, aged 20 to 23 years, 5ft 10 to 5ft 11ins tall, of medium build, with short black hair and wearing dark clothing and a black bobble hat.

The second man is described as white, 22 to 23 years, of similar height and build, with a skinny face and stubble, and wearing dark clothing and a hood.

Dc Brandon Savage said: "The two attackers showed a total disregard for the injuries they may have caused, using knives that they took to the scene with them. I ask anyone who has any information about the attackers to contact me."

Anyone with information about the attack should call police at Colchester on 0300 333 4444, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.