An 18-year-old was left "seriously injured" after being attacked on Southend seafront.

Emergency services swarmed to the the seafront yesterday evening following the assault on Marine Parade, while a police cordon was swiftly put in place.

Essex Police received reports of a disturbance involving a group of people around 6.45pm, before attending and finding an 18-year-old man seriously injured.

He was taken to hospital for further treatment.

Despite concern brewing on social media there had been an acid attack, the force have now firmly shut down rumours and confirmed no substances were involved.

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Pictures show aftermath of 'major incident' as police cordon in place on seafront

Cordon in place as 'major incident' unfolds on Southend seafront

Detective Sergeant Matt Harriss said: “I would like to thank all who reported this incident to emergency services, as your support ultimately helped an injured man receive the treatment he needed.

"We know there has been speculation on social media that this was an acid attack but I can confirm that no substances were involved.

“Although we understand that this type of behaviour is concerning for those who witness it and for residents in the area, there is no ongoing risk to the wider public.

“You’ll continue to see our officers out on high visibility patrols in the area to disrupt and deter those intent on committing crime and those involved in anti-social behaviour in Southend, and detectives will be carrying out enquiries today to identify those involved in the altercation yesterday evening.

“We ask that you please continue to report any concerning behaviour to us on 101 or 999 in an emergency, or come and speak to one our officers on patrol directly.”

Police investigation remains ongoing.

A spokesman from the ambulance service, said: "We were called to Marine Parade shortly before 7pm last night following reports of an assault.

"We sent three ambulances, a rapid response vehicle and two ambulance officers.

"Crews treated a male patient at the scene before transporting him to hospital for further assessment and care."

Anyone with information or CCTV footage from the area is asked to contact Southend CID, quoting reference 42/103640/21.