THE mum of a 20-year-old man stabbed in a car park has praised a bouncer for saving his life.

James Wilson was viciously attacked in Lucy Road, Southend, in the early hours of Saturday. 

A doorman from nearby Talk nightclub was one of the first on the scene. He administered first aid while he waited for paramedics to arrive.

James has since undergone two operations.

He was left with a stab wound to the stomach and a serious eye injury.

His mum, Deborah Wilson, said: “I want to praise Southend Hospital and mainly the bouncer of Talk nightclub who attended the scene and professionally administered first aid – especially applying pressure to the main wound as we are extremely grateful for his assistance.

“My son is now recovering after having two major surgeries.”

The attack happened in the Lucy Road car park at around 4am on Saturday.

Mark Flewitt, Southend councillor for public protection, praised staff from Talk for their lifesaving efforts.

He said: “This is Southend’s doormen at their best. It is what they are trained for. They don’t want to be enforcing the rules, they would much rather be helping.

“They want the parents, grandparents and families to know that young people are safe in their watch. This is a fine example of the doormen at their best.”

The Echo contacted Talk nightclub for comment but not did receive a response before going to print.

Police have released an appeal for anyone who was in the area at the time to come forward. They are particularly keen to speak to anyone who might have mobile phone footage.

Witnesses can contact officers at Southend CID on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. An anonymous online form can also be submitted via crimestoppers-uk.org