A man who was injured in a motiveless nightclub attack said today that Southend has become so violent he will never go out in the town again.

Insurance worker Howard Gras, 28, had gone to Churchills, in Tylers Avenue, Southend, to celebrate a new job.

He had been in the club with two friends for 20 minutes when he was smashed around the head with a bottle by a complete stranger.

Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL

He was rushed by ambulance to Southend Hospital where doctors found the two-and-a-half inch gash had gone down to the bone. He needed six external and 12 internal stitches.

Mr Gras, 28, of Shoebury, said: "No-where is 100 per cent safe, especially at night, but Southend has become quite appalling with the amount of violence now. I won't be going out in town any more. The town is unsafe."

Any information should go to Det Con Toby Larkin on 01702 431212.

Southend's police chief today proposed tough action to tackle violent late-night crime in the town - and called on nightclubs to join the campaign.

Chief Supt Mick Thwaites spoke out following a number of "horrendous and disgusting" crimes. It was "time for everyone to work together to take a grip on the situation".

Published Thursday October 31, 2002

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