Shocked residents have been left "horrified" after an attempted murder investigation was launched over a violent attack in a Toby Carvery car park.

Police and ambulances filled the restaurant’s car park, on the A127 in Westcliff, on Thursday night after reports of a serious assault outside. 

A man was found with serious neck injuries and taken to hospital. 

Essex Police confirmed a knife was used in the attack, at roughly 10pm, and residents and business owners living in the area have reacted in shock. 

A 53-year-old has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in custody being quizzed by officers. 

Magendran Vallipuram, 52, owner of Favorite Chicken and Ribs, said: “I saw the police. I went outside and only saw the police cars. A lot of cars on both sides of the road.

“It’s very dangerous, I was scared.

“I’ve been telling my children to not argue with anyone, because of so many more cases of people carrying knives. You never know what can happen.

 “It’s very frightening. I’ve never heard of anything like this in this area. It’s a good neighbourhood. I’m horrified.”

Echo:

Police have insisted the attack is an isolated incident with no threat to the wider public, but it comes after a week of violence which included a serious attack at Shoebury Garrison and a boy suffering a “puncture wound” in Springfield Drive, Westcliff. 

Carol Horwill, who lives nearby, said the increase in these incidents has been “frightening”.

She added: “It seems like violent crimes are all you hear about nowadays.

“You felt quite safe walking on the street before, but it’s completely different now, it’s very scary.”

Another resident, who chose to remain anonymous, believes crimes are increasing because “no one fears” the police.

He said: “It’s just become an evil place. It’s become worse since we became a city.

“Police can’t police anymore and if they do, they are prosecuted.”

Inspector Michael Peterson said: “We would like to reassure people in Westcliff that this is an isolated incident and we are not seeking anyone else in connection with last night’s suspected assault. 

“This was a busy pub and we believe there may be several people who witnessed what happened and may be able to help us with our investigation. It doesn’t matter how small a detail – we want to hear from anyone who can help us establish the facts.”

Contact Essex Police on 101 with information.