Residents have reported a cordon is in place around the Pitsea park and there is a large police presence.

There are suggestions on social media there has been a murder, but this has not been established by police.

Essex Police has been contacted for comment.

Update: 6pm

A spokesman from Essex Police said:"Officers are investigating after a man was stabbed in Northlands Park, Basildon, earlier today.

"We were called just after 3.35pm on September 4, following reports that a man had been stabbed with what was described as a samurai sword.  

"The victim attended hospital, but did not require any further medical treatment.

"Our enquiries are ongoing and we believe this was a targeted attack.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call 101 quoting incident number 775 of 04/09."