A search has been launched for a wanted man who has links to Chadwell Heath.

Essex Police said that they want to speak to Andrew Hitchman, 41, in connection with an investigation into an assault in Basildon, Essex.

The incident, they said, was reported to have happened in Cheshunts at around 7pm on December 22 last year.

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Hitchman is described as black, 6ft tall, with brown eyes and a scar to the centre of his forehead. He is said to have a tattoo depicting a Chinese symbol on the left-hand side of his neck.

The police added that Hitchman has links to Chadwell Heath, as well as Basildon, South Woodham Ferrers, Rayleigh and Benfleet in Essex. He could also be in Maidstone, Chatham and Dartford in Kent, they said.

Any sightings of Hitchman can be reported to Essex Police by submitting a report on their website or by using the online live chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am and 9pm.

Alternatively, information can be sent to police by dialling 101.