AN 18-year-old was left seriously injured after being attacked on Southend seafront, with the Adventure Island team swiftly coming to his aid.

A host of emergency services descended on the seafront on Tuesday with rumours circulating on social media of an “acid attack”.

Essex Police have confirmed no substances were involved, but attended a “disturbance involving a group of people” along Marine Parade at 6.45pm.

Officers found an 18-year-old man had been seriously injured, but were unable to provide further details on the circumstances of the attack despite being pressed by the Echo.

A large police cordon was put in place and increased patrols are taking place, although no arrests have been made at this stage.

Martin Richardson, owner of Happidrome Arcade, saw emergency services swarming the seafront, while Stockvale bosses have since confirmed their highly trained security team lent their assistance.

He said: “I heard about this over the radio, and we could see there were ambulances and a police car up the road.

Echo: Shut off - the cordon was put in place round the back of Adventure Island

“It is awful, and just seems there was a combination of alcohol, heat and lockdown fever. But there is never an excuse to go around attacking people.

“Someone first told us it was an acid attack, but it turns out someone from Adventure Island was pouring water on the man’s face to clear the blood and see the extent of the injuries.”

Read more:

Everything we know about the attack on Southend seafront last night

18-year-old left 'seriously injured' after attack on Southend seafront

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

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

Stockvale Group managing director Marc Miller, added: "Our highly trained security team lent assistance to a person in need - it’s what we do on a regular basis.

"There was also help from across the road from a friend of ours, who without his prompt action the poor victim might well have sustained far worse injuries.

"We have a good team spirit along the front and it’s at times like these the public receive the benefit of working together."

Echo: Scene - the incident unfolded behind this spot

Although police have insisted there is no ongoing risk to the wider public, David Garston, shadow cabinet member for community safety, fears the attack is enough to worry the community.

He said: “The weather was absolutely beautiful and families came from Southend and beyond for a day out. But incidents like this put people off from coming.

“It’s horrible to hear that anyone has been hurt, and it’s frightening for the nearby traders as well.

“Not only does it put those involved in danger, but it also puts extra pressure on the nurses, paramedics and hospital who also have to respond to these incidents. The police also can’t be everywhere.

“I wish the victim a speedy recovery.”

Detective Matt Harriss thanked residents for reporting the incident, with the calls “ultimately helping an injured man receive the treatment he needed.”

He added: “You’ll continue to see officers on high visibility patrols to disrupt and deter those intent on committing crime and those involved in anti-social behaviour, and detectives will be carrying out enquiries to identify those involved.” Call 101 and quote 42/103640/21 with information.