Crooks attack man in York Road, Southend

Two men had forced entry into an address on York Road, Southend and seriously assaulted the man inside.

It was reported that the two men were armed with a bat and an axe.

They were said to be looking for money but left without taking anything.

The incident took place at 1am on Friday morning, and ward councillor Matt Dent has said he will be requesting more safety patrols in the area to reassure residents.

The victim, a man aged in his 20s, was taken to hospital with serious injuries to his head and remains in hospital in a stable, but critical condition.

Police would like to speak to anyone who lives nearby and has a doorbell camera or CCTV or was driving in the area between 12.30am and 1.30am on Friday morning.

They are also appealing for anyone who has dash cam footage of the incident.

A spokesman for the police said: “We would also like to speak to those who were in the area around the time and heard or saw any suspicious or unusual behaviour.”

Matt Dent said: “It’s horrific for the individual in question and for his family and friends.

“These incidents are usually targeted attacks and not random acts of violence.

“It’s an area that’s had a number of anti-social incidents. It’s high on the council and police’s radar to pay attention to.

“My aim is to speak t o the community safety team to request additional patrols put on to reassure residents.”

The incident is the second aggravated burglary in the Southend borough in two months.

On May 7, a man in his 90s was attacked in Dungannon Drive, Thorpe Bay after two thugs wearing masks forced their way into his home.

The man luckily escaped the incident without serious injuries.

Contact Southend CID by visiting www.essex.police.uk to submit materials online about an existing case.

People should reference incident 42 of July 3.

People can also call police on 101, or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers completely anonymously on 0800 555111.