A NIGHT of chaos plagued the streets of south Essex after England’s historic semi final success with bottles thrown and people assaulted.

Police have now issued a stark warning ahead of Sunday’s final after two off-duty Met officers were assaulted in Billericay and bottles were thrown hurled across a road in Southend.

While the majority of football fans behaved themselves, Essex Police made numerous arrests to stop troublemakers.

The off-duty officers were found injured near the taxi rank at Billericay train station just after 10.50pm after they were assaulted by two men.

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One of the men suffered a minor injury while the second suffered a serious injury but is in a stable condition.

Police have now launched a probe in the incident, urging anyone with information to come forward.

It comes as a man was arrested after bottles were hurled in Southend, forcing officers to shut the high street to keep people safe.

A 21-year-old man from north Benfleet was arrested by police after throwing bottles in Southchurch Road.

The high street was later cordoned off so people could be dispersed safely.

Council bosses have slammed the behaviour of football hooligans, urging people to stay safe when watching the match.

Martin Terry, cabinet member for community safety said: “I don’t get this sort of outrageous behaviour. People need to control themselves when they drink.

“It’s unacceptable. There’s no need for it.

“It’s very disappointing and I hope the full force of the law comes down on them.

“It really saddens me. Some people need to look in the mirror and realise their relationship with alcohol.

“I hope people in Southend can behave themselves when we play in the final. The nation will be happy and we really just don’t want this behaviour. I’m fed up.”

Police are urging people to stay sensible this weekend ahead of the finals.

A spokesperson for Essex Police said: “Don’t score an own goal this weekend when celebrating our historic appearance. Stay safe and look after each other.”