A former council leader has hit out at attackers after a teenager was stabbed and an attempted murder probe was launched.

Emergency services were called to reports of a disturbance near Leigh Skate Park and Leigh Golf Range, on Two Trees Island at around 8.40pm on Wednesday.

Police said the teenage boy was taken to hospital with a stab wound which has been described as potentially life-changing.

Officers say two teenagers have been arrested in connection with offences including attempted murder and GBH with intent.

An Essex Police spokesman said: "A 15 year-old boy from Leigh has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and a 16 year-old boy from Westcliff has been arrested on suspicion of GBH with intent. They are both currently in custody."

John Lamb, Tory councillor for West Leigh, branded the attack as “horrendous” and “disgusting.”

He said: “It’s absolutely horrendous and for someone to carry a knife to and stab someone is just disgusting.

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“The full weight of the law and justice must come down on the people who or person who did this.

“Nobody deserves to be attacked like this, I think it’s absolutely dreadful. My thoughts are with the victim and his family.

“I really feel for them due to everything they are going through.”

Detective Inspector Marcus Dodd said: “I know this incident will be concerning but officers responded quickly and two arrests have been made.

“As part of our ongoing work to tackle violence and disorder across the Southend district, we are increasing officer visibility.

“Our priorities include minimising the opportunity to commit high-harm crimes, such as robbery and violence, tackling anti-social behaviour and policing the night-time economy.

“Officers will be focusing on seven key areas that are popular with the public in peak season. These includes large stretches of the waterfront from Shoebury to Old Leigh, and Southend High Street.”

Police are also appealing for anyone who saw anything or has any CCTV, dash cam, or doorbell footage to contact officers.

Anyone with any information can submit a report online at www.essex.police.uk or use the live chat button to speak to an online operator between 7am-11pm. Quote incident 1177 of 29 June.

Alternatively can also call Essex Police on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.