POLICE are appealing for witnesses and information after an attack which has left a man in a critical condition almost six weeks after the incident.

A man was found with severe head injuries in the Quarry Spring area of Harlow shortly before 6pm on Thursday 28 January.

We believe he was seriously assaulted a short distance away, on a field behind the Purple Emperor pub, between Blackbush Springs and Harefield.

As a result of the assault, the victim sustained a fractured skull. He remains in hospital and is in a critical condition. His injuries are so significant that his long-term prognosis is not yet clear.

Three men – two aged 19 and one aged 18 – and a 16-year-old boy have been arrested on suspicion of causing GBH with intent and have been released on bail until April 27.

Detective Inspector Greg Wood, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: “We know there were a number of witnesses who were present when this violent assault took place.

“The victim remains in hospital and his condition is still extremely serious. He received injuries from which he may never fully recover.

“If you saw the attack, know what happened, or simply have information which will help us understand how the victim’s injuries were caused I urge you to speak to one of my team.”

We specifically want to hear from anyone who was in the area of Blackbush Springs and Harefield between 4pm and 6pm on 28 January or who may have dashcam footage of the incident.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information on it should submit a report online at https://www.essex.police.uk or use the ‘Live Chat’ button to speak to an online operator between 7am-11pm.

You can also call us on 101 and cite incident 958 of January 28.

Information can also be given to independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or https://crimestoppers-uk.org.