A YOUNG father was last night in hospital with severe burns to his eyes after he was attacked with a highly corrosive chemical and then stabbed.The victim's two-year-old son was also injured when he fell into the chemical - possibly hydrochloric acid - during the horrific attack in Langham Drive, Clacton.

By Annie Davidson

A YOUNG father was last night in hospital with severe burns to his eyes after he was attacked with a highly corrosive chemical and then stabbed.

The victim's two-year-old son was also injured when he fell into the chemical - possibly hydrochloric acid - during the horrific attack in Langham Drive, Clacton.

A spokesman for Clacton police said the victim answered his front door at 2pm yesterday and was immediately struck with the chemical.

His attacker then stabbed him in the back and arm with a craft knife, causing him to lose a lot of blood.

The chemical caused severe burns to his eyes, face and tongue.

Police officers gave the victim first aid until Essex Ambulance Service arrived and rushed him and his son to Colchester General Hospital.

Last night the man, aged in his early 20s, underwent emergency surgery at Colchester General Hospital to repair his upper right arm, which sustained a deep cut. He required stitches for the rest of the stab wounds.

An eye specialist was also due to assess what could be done to save his eyes. An Essex Ambulance spokesman said the man told paramedics he could not see very much.

The two-year-old's mother put the child into the shower and washed off the chemical. He was taken to Colchester General Hospital, checked over and discharged.

Police are appealing for help from anyone who witnessed the incident or who saw a blue Ford Escort making off from the scene of the attack.

Anyone with information should contact Pc Stuart Knight at Clacton police on 01255 221312.

juliette.maxam@eadt.co.uk