A man was due to appear in court today (Monday) charged with attempting to murder his wife.

Robin Hall, of Kingston Way, Benfleet, was expected to appear before Southend magistrates today after the alleged incident on Saturday night.

The 34-year-old is also charged with one count of wounding and one of aggravated burglary.

His wife, Deborah Piper, suffered knife wounds to her stomach and hands. She was taken to Broomfield Hospital in Chelmsford where she underwent surgery to repair damaged tendons in her fingers. Her condition is not life-threatening.

A neighbour in Kingston Way, Andreas Leighton, also suffered knife wounds to his leg. He is in Basildon Hospital where he was due to have an operation on his knee this morning.

Mr Hall was taken to Southend hospital after suffering cuts to his left hand.

Police from Rayleigh were called to the address at about 10pm following reports of the incident and arrested Hall.

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