A MAN has been taken to hospital after being stabbed in a "targeted attack" in Southend last night, prompting a police investigation.

Police officers were called by ambulance colleagues to Sycamore Grove at around 6.05pm after a man in his 20s was found with a stab wound to the torso in what police believe to be a targeted attack.

The man was taken to hospital by air ambulance where he remains in a stable condition.

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A spokesperson for Essex Police said: "We understand that this is a concerning incident, but we do not believe there is risk to the wider community.

"Anyone who was in the area at the time and saw what happened is asked to contact us on 101 quoting crime report 42/102212/21.

"You can submit a report online at https://www.essex.police.uk or use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am-11pm.

"Alternatively, information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."