A POLICE investigation is ongoing after a violent incident in Grays town centre this morning that left a man who had been attacked with a bottle in hospital.

Three people have been arrested after the fracas at the junction of High Street and Clarence Road, in which blood was spilled. One passer-by's coat was splashed with blood, believed to have come from a man who was confronted by others shouting allegations about a domestic dispute.

The incident took place outside Barclays Bank and areas of Clarence Road and the High Street were cordoned off to allow a police forensic investigation.

Clarence Road in Grays this lunchtime.

A police statement says: "We were called shortly after 10.30am on Friday, 13 March to High Street, Grays, following reports of a fight involving a group of people. It was reported that several items were used as weapons during the incident, including a glass bottle and a guitar.

"Thurrock officers responded quickly and located an injured man who had sustained a head injury. He has been taken to hospital for treatment.

"Three people have been arrested in the vicinity in connection with the incident."

Police forensic officers were on site.

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An eye-witness told Thurrock Nub News: "There was a confrontation and shouting and one man went at another, it looked like he had something silver in his hand, maybe a knife. Several people got involved and there was blood. It splashed onto my coat. People were running away, it was quite scary."

The same woman confirmed that the victim was knocked unconscious and she and other passers-by stepped in to protect him as his assailants attempted to kick him on the ground.

Chief Inspector Daniel Barnes said: "This was a violent incident that has understandably caused concern within the community.

"We'd like to thank the members of the public who called to report this matter. Our officers acted swiftly to identify and arrest those believed to be involved.

"These arrests demonstrate our determination to keep people safe and bring an end to the incident, as violence has no place in our communities.

"Officers remain on scene to carry out enquiries and speak to witnesses."

A police statement added: "We are aware that parts of the incident were filmed by witnesses who we have not spoken to yet. We would ask that this footage is not shared online, but that it is forwarded to us to assist our investigation.

"This evidence will help officers progress enquiries quickly and effectively.

"If you have any information, or CCTV, dash cam, or other footage, please get in touch and quote incident 369 of 13 March when providing any information to make sure it gets to the right person as quickly as possible.

Police rushed to Grays High Street when the alarm was raised

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

"Visit https://www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services. Alternatively, you can call us on 101.

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