Detectives today stepped up their hunt for a man who repeatedly bit a teenager in a street brawl.

The 18-year-old victim needed urgent hospital treatment and stitches to his ear and nose following the brutal attack in Southend High Street.

He was today still recovering at home from his injuries. The incident happened as the victim walked home with his girlfriend.

A spokesman for Southend CID said: "Three men started to be abusive towards the victim's girlfriend.

"Words were exchanged and before the victim knew what was happening he had been bitten on the nose, his arm, his ears and on his back.

"It appears to have been a very nasty and unprovoked attack."

The incident happened at around 2.30am yesterday. Police want to hear from anyone who may have witnessed it.

Footage from CCTV cameras in the town is also being studied for clues as to who the attackers are.

All three men were white and in their early 20s. Two were slim and one was stockier, around 6ft tall and all have very short hair.

If you can help call Det Con Kevin Harman at Southend CID on 01702 431212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

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