DETECTIVES are urging witnesses to come forward after an assault left two men seriously injured in Southend town centre.

It was reported the assault, which involved several people, had broken out in Queens Road at the junction with College Way near the Revolution bar in Southend.

The incident unfolded in the early hours of the morning at around 2.20am on Sunday.

One man was knocked unconscious while another sustained serious injuries.

Both were taken to Southend hospital for further treatment.

Police officers rushed to the scene and have now launched an investigation.

Investigating officer PC Neil Utley, from Southend CID, said: “There were numerous people in the area at the time and only a couple of them have been identified.

“I need anyone who was there at the time of the attack – or anyone who saw what happened – to come forward and speak to me.”

In particular, investigators are looking to trace two men in connection with the brawl.

The first is described as white, slim, in his 20s, with a beard and short hair and wearing a white t-shirt and blue jeans.

The second is also described as white, slim, in his 20s with a beard and short hair but wearing a dark coloured t-shirt and dark coloured knee-length shorts.

Both men are reported to have walked off towards London Road.

The incident caused concern among residents over the level of violence in the town centre.

If you saw anything, have any CCTV or dash cam footage or have any other information Essex Police need you to call them on 101 quoting the crime reference number 42/98737/19.

Alternatively, you can contact independent crimefighting charity Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.

You can also share information online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/give-information-online.

NB Essex Police initially reported the incident happened at 2.20pm but have since issued a correction