A COUNCILLOR has branded a horror knife attack which hospitalised a man in Colchester “abhorrent”.

Essex Police said two people were attacked in Childwell Alley, off Brook Street, at about 5.25pm on Wednesday afternoon.

The Gazette understands the attackers were armed with knives and used them during their violent assault.

The second man assaulted was left with “significant cuts” to his arm.

Detectives are now appealing for information as they work to trace two men in connection with the incident.

Gazette: Attack - Childwell Alley, ColchesterAttack - Childwell Alley, Colchester (Image: Google)

Castle ward councillor Steph Nissen said she has raised the incident with Colchester Council’s safety team.

“This is an abhorrent crime and my thoughts are with the victims, wishing them a speedy recovery,” said Ms Nissen.

“I strongly urge anyone with any information to come forward and assist officers with the investigation.

“This will enable us to establish the facts as we continue our work making our residents safe, one of our core priorities.

“I have raised this incident as an urgent matter with our police liaison and our council safety team.”

Essex Police force has appealed for anyone with information, CCTV or dash cam footage related to the concerning incident to come forward.

Gazette: Appalled - Steph NissenAppalled - Steph Nissen (Image: Newsquest)

A police spokesman added: “One victim sustained a wound to his chest while the other was left with significant cuts to his arm and is currently in hospital for treatment.

“Following the attack the victims left the area towards Priory Street and they were found at an address in East Hill.

“Their attackers are described as two men of mixed race and one who had an afro-style haircut.”

Gazette reader Liz Cardy called for more police to patrol in and around Childwell Alley and Brook Street in response to the incident.

She said: “Hopefully public services will get more budget if we get a change of Government next time.

“I hope the victims are ok. [This] must have been really frightening.”

If you have any information which could assist the police, you should call 101.

Alternatively, an anonymous report can be made via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Any report should quote crime reference number 42/14940/23