A chemical oxidant-free and mediator-free, direct electro-oxidation of both benzylic alcohols and benzylic esters are reported. The scope of the reaction is explored as a function of both steric and electronic effects. Expansion of the scope to non-benzylic and heteroaryl substrates is investigated. Functionalisation of esters and alcohols selectively to the aldehyde oxidation level using a traceless electron approach is reported.