Police are investigating an attempted robbery where the would-be robber entered the shop with a plastic gun demanding money but left empty handed.
They are appealing for any witnesses to contact them.
Around 2.30pm on April 24 a man entered the Post Office stores on Garrison Parade, Purfleet, and pointed the 'spud gun' at the shopkeeper but when the suspect was ignored, he ran out of the store.
The suspect is described as white, about 5ft 10ins tall, wearing a grey/blue hoodie tracksuit and with a grey scarf covering his face.
Anyone who was in the area or has any information about this incident is asked to contact CID detectives at Grays Police Station on 101.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here