Police have made four more arrests after a football fan from Suffolk was seriously injured in a “sickening attack” in Essex almost three months ago.

Cambridge United fan and father-of-three Simon Dobbin, 42, from Mildenhall, and a small group of other supporters, were assaulted in East Street, Southend by a group of men who came out of the nearby Railway Tavern.

Mr Dobbin suffered a head injury and was knocked unconscious in the incident, which happened after a football match between Southend United and Cambridge United at around 7.15pm on Saturday, March 21.

He was transferred to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge and was placed in a medically induced coma.

He is now conscious but remains in hospital in a serious but stable condition.

A 38-year-old man from Basildon, two men from Southend aged 32 and 20, and a 24-year-old man from Rochford were arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and GBH.

The men in their 20s were released on police bail pending further enquiries until August 5 and the other two were bailed until August 6.

It brings the total number of arrests made to eight.

Three men from Southend, aged 19, 22, and 33, and a 24-year-old man from Westcliff, who were all arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm, have been bailed until early July, pending further enquiries.

Detective chief inspector Martin Pasmore, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, which is leading the investigation, said: “Mr Dobbin has received life-changing injuries as a result of this incident.

“He was an entirely innocent victim who was simply enjoying a day out with a friend.

“He could have been anyone’s father, son or brother.

“I am convinced there are witnesses out there who are yet to come forward and I would appeal for them to contact us as they may have vital evidence to help us bring those responsible for this sickening attack to justice.”

Witnesses or anyone with information are asked to call the Harlow Major Investigation Room on 01279 621802.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.