A MAN was smashed in the face with a tyre wrench after an argument during a night out.

The row broke out in Queen Street, Colchester, on Saturday night.

Police have confirmed a 30-year-old man was arrested for the attack - as well as on suspicion of having a knife.

Officers have sent a file to the Crown Prosecution Service and are awaiting a decision on whether he will be charged.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “We were called to reports of an argument between two men in Queen Street, Colchester at which took place at around midnight on Saturday.

“It was reported a man in his 20s was struck to his face with a tyre wrench.

“A 30 year-old man has arrested on suspicion of GBH with intent and possession of a knife or sharp pointed article in a public place.

“He has been reported for process.”

Conservative councillor Simon Crow, who represents Castle ward on Colchester Council, said he was stunned to be told about the violent attack.

“I am shocked to hear about this incident,” he said.

“I really hope the victim makes a full recovery.

“The town does seem to be safer these days.

“It feels like a safer place to be going out at night.

“Unfortunately, there are still people who are determined to cause trouble.”

Mr Crow said he was most worried about the nature of the weapon used.

He added: “It is very concerning that this person has either found a wrench, or taken it with them, and used it to assault somebody in this really worrying way.”

Colchester town centre’s police team has been reinforced with four extra officers in the last few weeks.

The new additions will allow Colchester’s Town Proactive Team to create an extra shift and brings the total number of officers on the team to 13, now made up of seven constables, five PCSOs and a sergeant.

Their focus will include the night time economy as well as the reduction of violent crime, drugs offences and anti-social behaviour in the town centre.