POLICE inquires remain ongoing after officers believe a man was forced into a van, attacked and dumped in a lay-by.

Officers were called after a 37-year-old man was found in the lay-by off the B1035 in Mistley, at about 5.45pm on Saturday.

Police have reason to believe the incident was a targeted attack.

It is understood the victim was forced into a red Renault van in the Beach Road area of Clacton being being assaulted and left in the lay-by.

The victim suffered a broken leg, broken ribs and facial injuries.

Some of his injuries are thought to be life-changing.

Following the attack, Clacton's Pier ward councillor Paul Honeywood has called for more patrols in the beach Road area.

“I was truly shocked to hear the details of what appears to be a pre-meditated, targeted and vicious attack that has taken place on the streets of our town," he said.

“While the police believe this to be a targeted rather than random attack it is understandable that local people are going to be concerned by such a crime.

"Therefore, it would be helpful if the police could increase their visibility in the area to provide re-assurance.”

It is not known exactly when the attack, but it could have happened between 2.30pm and 5.30pm.

Det Sgt Daniel Jefferies, from Essex Police, said there is not thought to be any wider threat to the community.

He said: “We do not believe this was a random attack and was instead targeted.

"Whilst we don’t believe there is any wider threat to the local community, this is a serious incident which has left a man with life-changing leg injuries."

Anyone with information about the incident should call Clacton CID by on 101 quoting incident 809 of January 2.

Alternatively, witnesses can contact the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.