Gang

Colin Adwent

IPSWICH: An axe is believed to have been used in an alleged attack which left a man seriously wounded just outside the town centre, it emerged today.

Although police have not revealed the identity of the victim who was set upon by a gang in Back Hamlet, he was named locally today as Lennox Wright.

At least one baseball bat was also thought to be used during the incident. It is believed that up to six men set about Mr Wright around 10.35pm on Sunday.

The 46-year-old sustained serious injuries, including a large cut to his head and lacerations to his hands. He was still recovering in Ipswich Hospital yesterday.

A hospital spokeswoman said his condition was improving and he was due to be assessed by a doctor yesterday afternoon.

Emergency services were called to the area near the roundabout between Duke Street and Back Hamlet.

Early reports said a man had been beaten with a bat and attacked with an axe.

When paramedics arrived, Mr Wright was bleeding heavily following the alleged assault outside a flat at the converted GM building.

Although police investigating the incident said they could not confirm an axe had been used, officers have said they believe a form of “edged weapon” may have been used to inflict Mr Wright's wounds.

Scene of crime officers, sealing off the area - which witnesses reported was spattered with blood - in search of clues.

Police have arrested a 34-year-old man from Ipswich arrested on suspicion of affray and possession of an offensive weapon in connection with the incident. He is due to return to Ipswich Police Station on March 1.

Anyone with information that may help with the investigation, should call DS Karl Nightingale at Ipswich CID on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Do you have a message of support for Mr Wright? Write to Your Letters, The Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or send us an e-mail to eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk