A PUBLIC safety boss has called for police to up their patrols in Colchester after a man suffered serious injuries in a morning attack.

Mike Lilley, Colchester councillor responsible for public safety, spoke of his fears after a second serious assault in the town in a matter of weeks.

Essex Police say two man were involved in an altercation on East Hill, near the Brook Street traffic lights, at around 11.05am on Wednesday.

The victim, a man in his 30s, remains in hospital with serious injuries.

A short time later, two men reportedly threatened a number of people on St Botolph’s Street, including in a kebab shop and in the Subway restaurant.

Officers arrived and arrested 29-year-old man, from Colchester, on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm.

A second man, 53, from Colchester, has been arrested on suspicion of affray, possession of an offensive weapon and assisting an offender.

Both remain in custody.

At around 7.30pm on Sunday, February 21, in an unrelated incident, two men were assaulted in Magdalen Street Colchester.

One of the men sustained serious facial injuries which led to him falling into the road.

Police believe he may have been struck, or nearly struck, by a vehicle travelling towards the town centre.

The man, aged in his 30s, was treated for his injuries at the scene and was taken to hospital. His injuries are not life-threatening.

A second man was also injured, with a source close to him confirming he had suffered a broken nose and wrist.

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Mr Lilley said: “Looking at this second incident it is a bit worrying.

“We know it won’t be related to pubs or any licensed premises, as everywhere is closed, it seems to be a case of two serious assaults involving people who were out and about.

“These are two well-populated areas and I think it is something we will pick up with the police to see if these are areas which can be looked at.

“Something needs to be done, patrols should be stepped up.”

Anyone with footage or information relating to either incident can call 101.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.