Police investigating an incident in Runwell in which three men were seriously injured have made four further arrests.

Officers were called at 11.23am on Sunday, September 27 with reports a man had been seen with a firearm in Meadow Lane.

While officers were at the scene making enquiries, they received two further calls - at 12pm and 12.50pm - reporting three men had been admitted to hospital with serious injuries.

Two aged 37 and 39, from the Basildon and Wickford areas, suffered gunshot wounds.

They are being treated for their injuries, which are serious but not life threatening.

A 27-year-old man from the Wickford area suffered stab wounds and an ear injury.

He received treatment and has been released from hospital.

Police have arrested three men - a 27-year-old from Waltham Abbey, a 37-year-old from Basildon, and a 39-year-old from Runwell - on suspicion of committing grievous bodily harm.

The 27-year-old man has been released on bail until December 3.

A fourth man, a 34-year-old from Runwell, was arrested on suspicion of committing grievous bodily harm and possession of firearms.

He has been released on bail until November 30, pending further enquiries.

An 18-year-old man from Runwell who was arrested on Sunday, September 27 on suspicion of committing grievous bodily harm has been released on bail until November 24, pending further enquiries.

DCI John Ross said: "Although we now believe the reports we received on Sunday are connected, we have so far not been able to establish the circumstances surrounding what happened or where the men were injured.

"Our investigations so far have established those involved are members of the travelling community and we would encourage anyone with information that can assist with our enquiries to please get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Det Sgt Trudi Arnold at Chelmsford CID on 101.

Alternatively, they can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org