Two men are fighting for their lives following a disturbance in Southend town centre last night.

The pair were rushed to hospital in a life-threatening condition following an incident on London Road, at around 11.30pm.

One man was found near the Odeon Cinema after members of the public "flagged down" police officers driving past.

The other was found a short while later on College Way, following a search of the area by police.

A cordon was put in place last night, with officers at the scene through the night.

Two scene guards are in place on London Road and College Way, with drivers and residents urged to avoid the area.

Three people have been arrested.

A 28-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of assault causing grievous bodily harm and possession of drugs.

The force has also arrested a 24-year-old woman on suspicion of possession of a knife, possession of firearms offences, assault causing actual bodily harm and assault causing grievous bodily harm.

A 22-year-old man has also been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage, possession with intent to steal drugs, robbery and assault causing grievous bodily harm.

All three remain in custody.

A spokesman from Essex Police, said: "Anyone with information is asked to call Essex Police quoting incident 1542 of 20/08 or you can report information online by visiting www.essex.police.uk.

"Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."