ESSEX Police has confirmed the targeted attack in Leigh last night was a stabbing, with a teenager left injured.

The major incident has left the town reeling, with the stabbing the latest in the long line of issues in Leigh recently.

Three people have been arrested following the incident, at around 8.50pm.

A police cordon remained until around 2am, the Echo understands.

The force believes the incident was a targeted assault.

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Superintendent Michelle Davies, of the South Command team, said: “Firstly, we would like to thank the members of the public who valiantly stepped in to provide urgent medical assistance and those who have already helped officers with our enquiries.

“Your support really does make a difference.

“We know this incident will be concerning for those of you who work and live in the area, but please know that we are taking this very seriously and we are confident that there is no threat to the wider public.

“We believe that both parties involved are known to each other and that this was a targeted attack, as is the case with many incidents of this nature.

“Emergency services responded swiftly and with your help, our officers made three quick arrests and those people remain in custody.

“You will see officers on patrol in the area and carrying out enquiries.

"If you have information and have not already spoken with us or if you have footage from the incident that may help, please contact us or talk to an officer directly.”

A spokesman from Essex Police, added: "Our investigation remains ongoing and anyone with information or CCTV, dashcam or Ring doorbell footage from the area is asked to contact us on 101, quoting incident 1485 of 3 June.

"You can also submit a report online at https://www.essex.police.uk or use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am-11pm.

"Information can also be given to independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or at https://crimestoppers-uk.org.