A man remains in custody following a suspected attempted arson attack at an Islamic prayer centre.

Police were called to the Al-Falah Braintree Islamic Centre, in Silks Way, Braintree, at 7.15pm yesterday.

A 43-year-old man from Braintree has been arrested on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon and attempted arson.

No-one was injured during the incident.

This morning an Essex Police spokesman said: "The man is still in custody and enquiries are continuing.”

Following the incident, a message on the mosque’s Facebook page said: “Everyone is safe after today's incident. Please keep vigilant over the next few days just in case we get any more revenge attacks.”

On Wednesday night, Braintree MP Brooks Newmark tweeted: "Just met with leaders of local mosque in Braintree which was attacked this evening. Thanked police for their swift response."