POLICE have now confirmed that a stabbing took place in Grays High Street today (Monday, 24 May).

Emergency services, including the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance which landed on nearby Kilverts Field, rushed to the area around lunchtime.

Police have now issued the following statement: "Officers attended at the scene of a stabbing in Grays, which occurred earlier this afternoon, and are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

"We were called to the High Street following reports of a theft from Costcutter Express just before 1pm today, Monday, 24 May.

"A disturbance was caused outside the store and we believe a man in his late teens was stabbed in the wrist, causing serious injury.

"We have since spoken to the victim and we believe this was a targeted incident.

"We are continuing to search the area for a man, described as being Jamaican and wearing a black tracksuit, who left the scene on foot and who we believe was involved in the incident.

"Anyone with information, CCTV or dashcam is asked to call 101 and quote the incident number 532 of 24 May. You can also report anything you witnessed, and upload footage or images, through our website.