Police are hunting an attacker who stabbed a Clacton soldier in the leg three times during a night out.

The man suffered serious stab wounds after an argument in a fast food chicken restaurant.

Acting Sgt Mike Sheeran, of Clacton CID, said the attack happened at about 2am on Saturday in the shop in Rosemary Road.

The man, in his late 20s, was taken to Colchester General Hospital where his injuries were said to be "serious but not life threatening".

He had been stabbed three times in his right leg with a pointed object, possibly a knife. One of the wounds was four inches deep.

Acting Sgt Sheeran said: "Obviously there would have been a number of people around at that time on a weekend and we are asking for anyone who might have seen anything to come forward.

"We understand there were about three youths, all in their early 20s."

Police were today due to scan CCTV footage of the area for information. They said the victim was a serviceman based in Germany and was due to return there on duty.

Anyone with information should ring Clacton CID on 01255 221312 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

Published Monday, April 8, 2002