A TEENAGER sprayed in the face with a toxic gas in Colchester’s Castle Park in an apparent revenge attack.

Police are investigating after an 18-year-old man who had been involved in an argument with another teen in the town centre beauty spot was targeted at about 6.30pm on Tuesday.

A short time later the victim was approached by another man and was sprayed in the face with the poisonous substance.

The victim did not suffer serious injuries but community bosses are urging vigilance in the park.

Mike Lilley, Colchester councillor responsible for community safety, said it was a worrying incident and vowed to launch a review of CCTV in the park.

He said: “I was made aware that there was an attack on a young lad and I was informed it was CS gas that was used.

“It is very worrying that it has happened and we obviously have to wait for police to investigate to see the circumstances around it. It seems more than just one lad attacking another, why would you be carrying a gas cannister around?”

CS gas is used as a defence spray and police often use it in riot situations. It can be bought for as little as £6 online.

Mr Lilley said the council is working proactively to warn people of the dangers.

He said: “People just need to be vigilant, we will be putting something out to members of the public on what to do if someone is attacked. We will also be reviewing the CCTV around Castle Park, we need more police officers on the ground and it’s a sad reflection of if you cut police officers the crime will rise.”

An Essex Police spokesman said: “Police are investigating following an incident in Colchester where a man was sprayed in the face with what is believed to be a non-corrosive noxious substance.

“The substance is not believed to be acid. The victim, an 18 year- old man, had been involved in an argument with a teenager in Castle Park at around 6.30pm on Tuesday, October 3.

“A short time later the victim was approached by another man and was sprayed in the face with a noxious substance.” Anyone with any information should contact Colchester CID on 101.