Three men arrested over a terrifying machete attack in the city centre of Southend have all been released on bail as Essex Police plead for anyone with information to come forward.

Shocking footage has circulated social media in recent days showing a group of men – all armed with machetes and knives - involved in a fight in the early hours of Sunday morning on Southchurch Road.

Despite making a series of arrests in the hours following the incident, Essex Police have been unable to charge anyone in relation to the incident and have issued a renewed appeal for anyone with information to come forward.

In a bid to reassure residents and avoid any further incidents, an increased police presence will continue in the city centre and facial recognition technology will be used in the coming days.

Southend’s district commander, Chief Insp David Browning, said: “As the team continue to build on their investigation, I will be continuing to keep my officers in Southend, watching over and engaging with residents, visitors and businesses throughout the city.

“I know the vast majority of the people of Southend are decent, law-abiding people who want to see us stamp out incidents of this nature.

“The actions of a criminal minority do not reflect the Southend I know and recognise.

“I would continue to reassure you we are taking this matter extremely seriously and are dedicating our resources both to progressing our investigation and preventing a repeat of the scenes we saw over the weekend."

A 32-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of affray, remains on bail.

Two men, aged 19 and 24, and a 17-year-old boy, all from Southend, have been questioned on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm

The 24-year-old and 17-year-old have since been released on bail, with stringent monitoring conditions attached, while the 19-year-old will face no further action.

Mr Browning added: “We’re still really keen to hear from anyone who either witnessed this incident, or who may have information which could assist our team.

“We know there is a likelihood someone in Southend knows the identities of those involved, and I would appeal directly to them.

“This was a serious incident of disorder involving weapons which, on another day, could have resulted in serious injury or death. Assisting someone you know to have been involved could constitute a serious criminal offence in itself."