TWO men have been arrested for attempted murder after a man was shot in the head in his own home.

Detectives launched an investigation last September after thugs walked into a flat opposite Rayleigh railway station and fired at a man in his forties.

The severity of the case meant it was passed to Essex Police’s major investigation team which has now arrested a 41-year-old man and a 49-year-old man at their homes in Epping.

The victim was being kept under constant supervision by armed police at Southend Hospital’s Paglesham ward, but has now been discharged to continue his recuperation at an undisclosed location.

Police have refused to reveal the extent of the victim’s head injuries.

The two suspects have now been released on police bail until August 4, pending further inquiries.

Two men have already appeared at Southend Magis-trates’ Court accused of perverting the course of justice in connection with the case.

Grant Westgarth, 28, is alleged to have removed a gun and ammunition from the crime scene. Douglas Wright, 45, of Crouch Street, Basildon, is accused of giving a statement to police saying he found the victim on the floor, making no mention about Westgarth.

Westgarth, of Smollett Place, Wickford, is further charged with having a handgun and .38 bullets without a firearms certificate, and possession of 1.1 grams of cocaine. They have been released on bail to appear at Basildon Crown Court on June 18 to enter a plea.