THREE men have been arrested following an incident in Stanford-le-Hope in the early hours of this morning when a police officer was struck by a car and seriously injured.

Two of the three are suspected of attempted murder of the officer!

Police responding to a report stopped two cars travelling in convoy in Manorway shortly before 2am today (Wednesday, 29 May).

Police have said that as an officer was speaking to the occupants of one of the vehicles, they made off, getting back into the vehicle and leaving the scene.

During this, one of the vehicles was in collision with the officer.

A pursuit took place before the occupants got out and made off on foot but were arrested a short time later.

The officer was taken to hospital with a shoulder injury and has since been discharged.

A 35 year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, failing to stop when directed, causing serious injury by dangerous driving, and theft.

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A 34 year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, failing to stop when directed, causing serious injury by dangerous driving, and possession of a Class B drug.

And another 35 year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, failing to stop when directed, and possession of a Class A drug.

All three are currently in custody.

Superintendent Timothy Tubbs said: "My thoughts are with our injured colleague.

"I want to praise the professionalism of the officers who responded to this incident.

"It is never easy when you see one of your colleagues hurt but this didn't prevent them ensuring we brought suspects into custody".

A police statement added: "If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.

"Please quote incident 73 of 29 May.

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

"Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services.

"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."