A SECOND man has been arrested in connection with a serious attack in Basildon which is being investigated as an attempted murder. 

Essex Police arrested a 33-year-old man, from Basildon, on suspicion of attempted murder on Thursday, the force confirmed on Saturday. 

It followed the arrest of a 42-year-old man last Tuesday, also on suspicion of attempted murder. 

The probe was launched after a man was taken to hospital with a serious head injury after being found outside Vange Riverview Centre in Vange shortly before 6pm, last Saturday. 

He remains in a critical condition. 

An investigation within Essex Police’s Serious Crime Directorate continues.

Det Chief Insp Louise Metcalfe said: “Our investigation into this incident has continued throughout the week as we piece together the circumstances which led to the victim suffering a very serious injury.

“This work led to a significant arrest yesterday and our enquiries are progressing well. 

“However I still need the community in Basildon to work with us, to think back to the evening of the assault, and consider whether they have any information which could assist us. 

“We’ve maintained a visible presence in the Vange area as officers work to reassure residents and maintain those ties in the community.”

A crime scene remains in place in the area. 

A police spokesman said: "We are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed anything in the area on Saturday evening to contact us.

"Anyone with doorbell or dash cam footage which may assist us should also get in touch.

"A dedicated portal has been set up to quickly get through to the investigative team with information: Public Portal - click here."