THE detective investigating a violent attack in Southend says a man who was blinded in the machete attack suffered some of the "worst injuries" she had ever seen.

Det Insp Lisa Hurrell’s comments come after Lenny Draper was jailed for his role in the horrifying incident, which saw another attacker fatally wounded.

The victim was attacked while walking in London Road late on August 20, 2020.

He suffered severe face, head and back injuries during the attack, which involved the use of a machete.

The victim was left blind in both eyes as a result of his injuries.

Draper, of Sheepen Road, Colchester, fled the scene along with fellow attacker Sam Jarman-Hall.

Echo: Lenny DraperLenny Draper

But Jarman-Hall somehow injured himself while fleeing and was found with fatal injuries in College Way.

He died a week later.

CCTV footage of the incident confirmed he had injured himself with the blade he was carrying.

DNA evidence from Draper, 27, was also found on the weapon.

Draper admitted charges of GBH with intent, affray, possession of an offensive weapon and possession of cannabis when he appeared at Basildon Crown Court on April 8.

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On Thursday, he was sentenced to 12-and-a-half years in prison, with five years on extended licence.

Speaking after sentencing, Det Insp Hurrell said: “This was an extremely violent incident and one of the worst injuries I have ever seen. I have no doubt that both attackers set out that night to cause serious harm to the victim.

“In a matter of seconds, one man received life-changing injuries and another fatally-injured himself; that’s two families who have had to face the devastation that knife crime brings.

“Everyone that worked on this case has played a part in getting this result and we’re really proud that Draper is now behind bars and has joined the list of people rightfully paying for their crimes.”