An attempted murder investigation has been launched, following a serious assault in Basildon on Saturday, 4 May.

Essex Police officers were called to a location outside Vange Riverview Centre in Basildon shortly before 6pm following reports of a man who had been seriously assaulted.

The victim was taken to hospital with a head injury, where he remains in a critical condition.

An investigation within Essex Police's Serious Crime Directorate remains ongoing.

On Tuesday, 8 May, officers arrested a 42-year-old man from Basildon on suspicion of attempted murder. He remains in custody.

Detective Chief Inspector Louise Metcalfe said "We are continuing our enquiries and a scene remains in place in the area.

"We are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed anything in the area on Saturday evening to contact us. If you were driving close to the area and may have any dashcam footage or if you witnessed anything suspicious, please contact us.

"I appreciate that this news is concerning to residents, but we believe this to be an isolated incident."

If you can provide any information which could support this investigation, contact police quoting incident number 970 of 4 May.

You can let them know by submitting a report on the website or by using the online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm.

Visit https://www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more.

If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.