TWO men have been the victims of a suspected liquid chemical attack at a busy shopping centre. 

Police and paramedics have been seen near the Grays Shopping Centre, Grays this afternoon.

At least five emergency vehicles have been spotted at the scene.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "Police received a report of an assault in The Mall, Grays, shortly before 2.30pm today, Wednesday, August 9.

"Two men reported they had been sprayed in the face with liquid by two men.

"Paramedics attended and treated the victims, one man was taken to hospital by ambulance but their injuries are not thought to be life-changing or life-threatening.

"Investigations are currently ongoing.

"Witnesses or anyone with information is asked to contact Pc Rhoddy Slater at Grays police station on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

 A spokesman for the ambulance service said: "‘The East of England Ambulance Service received a 999 call at approximately 14.30 for a male of unknown age who was believed to have been a victim of an acid attack.

"A Rapid Response Vehicle, two Officers and two Ambulances were sent. On arrival there were two patients who had been sprayed with an unknown chemical, which was confirmed not to be acid.

"One patient was conveyed to hospital."