A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after an off-duty police officer was stabbed at a house in Rayleigh last night.

A major police presence a residential road last night after the attack which left the officer with serious injuries.

At least three armed units, 12 police cars and two ambulances were spotted in the street attending to the incident.

The officer suffered serious stab wounds to his stomach, chest and arm and was rushed to hospital in an ambulance with a police escort, according to neighbours.

A second man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "We were called to reports a man had been stabbed at an address in Rayleigh at around 9.10pm on Wednesday, April 24.

"We attended and found a man with serious injuries to his stomach, chest, and arm.

"A man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder and is currently in custody.

"At this time detectives believe the incident was targeted and isolated and there is no wider risk to the local community.

"We are not seeking anyone else in connection with this incident.

"We can confirm the victim involved in last night’s incident was an employee of Essex Police. We will not be commenting any further at this stage."

Officers carried out door-to-door enquiries in the aftermath of the incident and were appealing to neighbours for CCTV footage.

Residents reported that forensic officers were on scene examining the evidence into the early hours of the morning.

If you have any information about the incident please call us on 101 quoting incident 1274 of April 24 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.