A team of detectives investigating a triple axe attack in north Essex have received new information in their bid to track down those responsible.

Following further interviews with the victims they have now discovered that all three incidents occurred in Weeley - and not three different locations as originally reported.

It had first been thought that a 26-year-old man was attacked by a man wielding an axe as he sat in his car in High Street, Thorpe, around 5pm on November 23.

About two hours later a 31-year-old received serious injuries when he was assaulted by a man with an axe or machete in nearby Hilltop Crescent, Weeley.

He had a fractured skull, broken arm, injured tendons and facial cuts.

He has now been released from hospital and is making steady progress.

Details of the third incident were revealed when a 39-year-old man arrived at Colchester Hospital with cuts to his head and hands following an assault which he said occurred at Horsley Cross. However, it later emerged that he had actually been attacked in Weeley.

Det Sgt Martin Brough of Clacton CID said, following further inquiries and interviews, it now appeared that all three incidents happened in Weeley.

"Due to our investigations it has now been established the case has altered slightly in that all three attacks occurred at the same location," he said.

"The victims have been more open with us as time has gone on and it now seems that nothing happened in Thorpe or Horsley Cross - but all three assaults took place in Weeley."

Det Sgt Brough said investigations were still ongoing and appealed for anyone with information which could help the police to come forward.

"These were very vicious attacks and we want to apprehend those responsible as soon as possible," he added.

It is believed that one person carried out all three attacks. He was about 25, 6ft 1in tall of medium build and was wearing motorbike leathers.

He was accompanied by another man on a silver high-powered motorbike.

Det Sgt Brough said a number of leads were being followed up, including working with other police forces.

Anyone who can help should contact 01255 221312 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

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