Police UK
A man is recovering in hospital after reportedly having his hand was cut off in an attack in Essex iStock

A man has been left with "life changing injures" after reportedly having his hand cut off in a targeted attack in Essex. The victim, in his 20s, was allegedly attacked while on a night out with friends in Loughton on Friday, 6 November.

A 30-year-old male has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following the attack by a "by a group of three or four men". Essex Police appealing for information to catch the other suspects who fled the scene.

It is believed the suspects fled in a black Audi A8 which was later found on fire near Waltham Abbey. A large knife was also recovered from the scene of the attack, which occurred around 11.30pm.

An Essex Police spokesperson said: "Officers do not believe that this was a random incident and it may have been a targeted attack."

Anybody with information should contact Essex Police 101, Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via an Anonymous Online Form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.