THE former head of Essex CID was attacked at a party he was hosting for his granddaughter.

David Bright was punched in the face as he hosted his grand-daughter’s 15th birthday party at his home in Westcliff.

His son, who is in his forties, was also attacked, along with a teenage girl as gatecrashers descended on the party after seeing it posted on Facebook.

Mr Bright had told his neighbours in advance about the bash, but it descended into chaos when the uninvited guests were asked to leave.

Mr Bright said: “It was a well-organised event, but gatecrashers were asked to leave and one of them went to get his dad. I would say 95 per cent of the kids were good kids – really nice children having a good time.

“Everything would have been alright, except for the idiotic behaviour of a father. I defended myself, but my son was unable to because he was trying to protect the barbecue, which was loaded with food.”

One neighbour, who asked not to be named, said the violence spilled out into the streets.

He said: “David Bright apologised in advance for any possible noise that might occur by handing out leaflets to neighbours informing them about the party.

“Then at about 10pm it turned into carnage.

“Police cars blocked the road and it was havoc. The ambulance was called so someone must have got hurt.

“There was seven or eight police cars with up to about 20 police. They were chasing youngsters up the road who were throwing bottles and cans.”

An ambulance was called to the street, but no one needed hospital treatment.

The party was arranged for 60 teenagers and was being held in a marquee in the back garden. Only soft drinks were being served.

An Essex Police spokeswoman said: “Police are investigating three complaints of assault which happened at a party in Chase Gardens, Westcliff, at 10pm on Saturday, February 28.

“A man in his 70s was punched to the body and face causing no visible injuries.

“A man in his 40s was punched in the face causing swelling to the right eye and mouth.

“A teenager was punched in the face causing swelling and bruising to the left eye.

“Officers attended shortly after 10pm and the party dispersed by 11pm.”

Anyone with information about the incidents can call police on 101.

David Bright joined Essex Police in 1966 and retired as its top investigator 15 years ago.

One of his jobs now is advising on television crime dramas, such as Silent Witness.