A SECOND man has been charged in connection with an incident in which a corrosive fluid was thrown at a man inside a shop in Westcliff.

A 19-year-old man from Southend suffered chemical burns to his left arm, ear and hand during an altercation at a convenience store in North Road, at about 1.20pm on Thursday, June 30.

The victim was taken to Southend Hospital before receiving further treatment at a specialist burns unit at Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford.

He is expected to have further long-term medical treatment.

Following enquiries by officers from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate investigating gang activity in the district, a man was arrested in Southend yesterday.

Archie Harding, 19, of Kursaal Way, Southend was later charged with throwing a corrosive fluid with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and a further charge of affray.

He was remanded in custody to appear at Southend Magistrates’ Court today.

Leban Elmi, 22, unemployed, of Kirkwood Road, London, was charged with possession of an offensive weapon in a public place and affray in connection with the same incident.

He appeared at Southend Magistrates' Court on July 7 and was remanded in custody to appear at Basildon Crown Court on August 4.