THREE men have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder in South Ockendon.

We were called during the early hours of this morning, Wednesday 1 July, following a report that three men had approached a man on Arisdale Close and seriously assaulted him with what was described as a large knife.

Officers and paramedics responded and found a man aged in his 20s with life-threatening injuries.

He was taken to hospital and remains in a stable, but critical condition, but his injuries are no longer considered life-threatening.

A 22-year-old man from Dagenham, a 23-year-old man from South Ockendon and a 20-year-old man from Upminster have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remain in police custody.

Detectives would like to speak to for anyone who witnessed the incident or has dash cam, doorbell or CCTV footage of what happened.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Grays CID through the police website referencing incident 40 of 1 July.

Alternatively call 101 or contact independent charity Crimestoppers completely anonymously.

"What happened this morning, will understandably cause the community concerns" said Chief Inspector Natalia Ross. "Our officers remain at the scene as the investigation progresses and we will have additional officers on patrols in the area.

"We urge anyone who has concerns or information about the incident to speak to our officers.

"We're here to listen and are working hard to bring those responsible to justice."