AN ELDERLY woman has been left with serious injuries after a row broke out in Southend town centre.

The incident took place in Queens Road, off Southend High Street, and police are now urgently appealing for witnesses.

The victim is 75-years-old, and the violence happened at 8.10pm on Saturday.

The thugs who attacked her were women.

An Essex Police spokesman said: “We are investigating following this nasty incident in Queens Road, Southend.

“It was reported the victim was assaulted following an argument with two other women.”

A witness who saw the incident described the elderly woman as left with “grievous bodily harm” level injuries.

The attack has stunned the community.

Southend Council Leader John Lamb said the incident constituted “bullying”.

The Conservative councillor added: “This must have been very frightening for the victim.

“It is dreadful anyone at any age is assaulted, but it seems worse when it is an elderly person. The person who did this has no respect.

“I think the full power of the law should be used against this person or persons to send them to prison. It is worse when an older person is attacked as people see them as vulnerable and someone who cannot defend themselves.

“It is always wrong to do this to anyone.

“It is bullying. I hope the victim has a speedy recovery and of course my thoughts with them. It is a big trauma for the victim of this attack.”

Ward councillor Jonathan Garston urged anyone with information to contact Essex Police now.

He added: “Community safety is a concern in the area but several residents have reported to me that they have noticed an increase in police numbers.

“In this case, it’s devastating to hear of something like this happening and my thoughts are with the victim and her family.

“I would hope anyone with information would contact Southend police.”

If you have any information about the incident call police on 101 quoting the reference number 42/119703/18 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.