A POLICE search was launched last night as a man was stabbed in the hand in an alleyway in Rayleigh.

Police were called at around 9.15pm on Saturday, May 7 with reports of an assault in Rayleigh an alleyway between Langham Drive and Bardfield Way in Rayleigh.

A man in his 30’s had been stabbed.

A spokewoman for police said: “A man was spotted acting suspiciously in an alleyway between Langham Drive and Bardfield Road.

“When he was challenged, he lunged towards the victim and stabbed him in his hand before running off.

“The victim, who is aged in his 30s, was treated at hospital and has since been discharged.

"An area search was conducted for the suspect and the helicopter was dispatched to assist. No trace was found. “

He was described as white, aged in his early 20s, of slim build, around 6ft tall and wearing a grey hooded jumper with grey jogging bottoms.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Essex Police on 101.