POLICE have renewed their appeal for information into the disturbance in Southend that left a Cambridge United supporter with serious head injuries and fighting for his life.

Simon Dobbin, 42, of Mildenhall, Suffolk, had left the Blue Boar pub and was walking with a small group of other supporters to Prittlewell train station at about 7.15pm on Saturday, March 21.

They were assaulted in East Street by a group of men who came out of the nearby Railway Tavern.

Mr Dobbin suffered a head injury and was knocked unconscious.

He has since been transferred to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, where he remains in a medically induced coma in a critical but stable condition.

DCI Martin Pasmore, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, who is leading the investigation, said: "Mr Dobbin is an entirely innocent victim in this attack.

"He is a decent family man who was simply enjoying a day out with a friend.

"My heart goes out to his family at this very difficult time.

"I believe that Mr Dobbin’s attacker was among a group of men who came out of the Railway Tavern with the intention of attacking the Cambridge supporters.

"It is clear that motorists and pedestrians would have been stopped by the disorder and I need anyone who saw any aspect of this incident to get in touch.

"I also need anyone in the Blue Boar or Railway Tavern at the time to contact police.

"Some of the Cambridge supporters are still to be traced and I appeal to them to make contact as soon as possible.

"It is my intention to identify everyone involved in this sickening attack and bring them to justice.”

Mr Dobbin’s family would like to thank everyone who has supported them during this difficult time and are very grateful for the messages of support from wellwishers.

Four men have been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm.

Three men from Southend, aged 19, 22, and 33, and a 23-year-old from Westcliff, have been bailed until May 27, pending further enquiries.

Anyone who witnessed the assault or has any information is asked to call the Harlow Major Investigation Room on 01279 621802.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org