A MAN was violently attacked and left with serious injuries after a gang smashed their way into a home before stealing a television and bike.

Essex Police have launched an investigation into an aggravated burglary which was carried out in Barrack Street, Colchester, at about 8am on March 8.

According to reports submitted to the force, four people entered the property before launching a vicious assault on an unsuspecting man in his 50s.

As a result of the horrific raid the victim sustained serious head and hand injuries and a television and bike were snatched from the property.

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Sam McLean, councillor for New Town Christ Church, has now strongly condemned the needless burglary and attack and

He said: “This was a horrifying incident and I and members of the New Town community have their thoughts with the victim. We wish them a speedy recovery.

"There must be justice for the victim of this evil attack and I ask anyone with potential evidence to come forward to assist the police in this investigation.

"Colchester is otherwise a safe city but after more than 12 years of austerity and cuts to the police service, crime investigation and prevention are strained.

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"National Government needs to invest more into our police service and into the judicial system so victims of crime can get the justice they deserve."

Since the break-in a 35-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary and bailed until April 3.

Det Sgt Jonathan Loudon, who is investigating the incident, has now called on vigilant members of the public to help the police catch those responsible.

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He said: “We’re asking for the public to think back if they were in the area at the time, and if they saw anyone acting suspiciously.

“We believe two of the four were men in company of two women and we want to identify them.

“The address is near the junction of Brooke Street, Magdalene Street and Wimpole Road.

“This is a busy junction at that time of day and several cars would have stopped at the nearby traffic lights.”

Anyone with information can contact Essex Police by either visiting essex.police.uk/digital101 or by calling 101 and quoting crime reference 42/41616/23.

Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.