A Southend MP has claimed some people have been left "critically injured" following disturbing scenes in the city.

Bayo Alaba, Labour MP for Southend East and Rochford, has spoken out after "machete fights" and "distressing scenes" in Southend last night.

Disturbing footage on social media last night showed several people dressed in black, brandishing large knives along Southend seafront.

These incidents occurred as a "large influx" of young people headed to the city, reportedly for a beach party advertised on TikTok.

Mr Alaba has now claimed that some people were left "critically injured" during the chaos. 

In a tweet, he stated: "Some distressing scenes in my city of Southend last night. I drove around in the evening to see the issues.

"There are some active crime scenes but the disorder had ceased.

"Multiple arrests and some critically injured people.

"Thank you to the emergency services for the speedy response in protecting our community.

"It is an active case and so I cannot comment much further. I am due to meet the Police for a briefing this morning and more details may follow.

"My thoughts go out to all the people affected by this disturbing event.

"The safety of the community and putting measures in place so that does not happen again are top priorities of mine."

"Will share updates as and when I can."