Man attacked by five men in Southchurch Park in late night assault: Police appeal for witnesses

Police Detectives from Southend CID are appealing for witnesses and information after a man was assaulted by a group of five in Southchurch Park late last month.

The attack happened at around 10.30pm on Saturday 22 March, when a man in his 30s was set upon inside the popular Southend park. The victim suffered multiple injuries to his face, stomach and legs during the attack.

Essex Police have now revealed details of the incident and are urging anyone who was in the area at the time, or who may have captured anything on mobile phones, dashcams or doorbell cameras, to come forward and help with the investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to quote reference 42/38721/25 when getting in touch with the police. You can email detectives directly at 42080651@essex.police.uk, submit a report through the Essex Police website, or use their Live Chat service, which is available 24/7.

If you would prefer to remain anonymous, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers either through their website or by calling 0800 555 111.

Southchurch Park is a well-loved green space in Southend, open all year round from 8am until dusk. However, the pedestrian gates are not locked at nightfall, meaning access is still possible after dark. The park is usually bustling during the day with dog walkers, families enjoying the playground, and cricket matches during the warmer months.

This is not the first time Southchurch Park has been the focus of police investigations. In October 2024, a woman came forward alleging she had been touched inappropriately by a man while walking through the park. Essex Police launched a full investigation into the alleged sexual assault at the time.

More recently, Southchurch Park has faced other challenges. Earlier this year, the Southend Neighbourhood Policing Team increased patrols in and around the area following a rise in reports of drug dealing.

A local resident, who asked not to be named, told us: “It’s really sad because Southchurch Park is such a lovely place for families. We’ve definitely noticed more trouble in the evenings lately, and it’s worrying.”

Detectives are keen to stress the importance of community information and are continuing to investigate those responsible for the assault.