Police investigating an assault which left a man with a serious head injury have linked it with a house fire near Billericay. 

Officers were called to Sudburys Farm Road in Little Burstead just before 9.20am on Thursday, July 30 with reports a man had been injured.

Officers attended with paramedics and the air ambulance and a man aged in his 40s was airlifted to the Royal London Hospital.

His condition remains life-threatening.

Today, officers will be carrying out anniversary checks by speaking to residents and road users in the local area.

Investigating Officer Detective Inspector, Anne Cameron said: "I am keen to speak to anyone who witnessed any suspicious or unusual activity in Blind Lane or Sudbury Farm Lane Billericay during the morning of the July 30.

"In addition to the man being found with head injuries, there was a house fire in Blind lane. I believe both incidents are linked and I am keen to speak with anyone who could progress either enquiry.”

A 59-year-old man from the Billericay area and a 53-year-old man from Basildon were arrested in connection with the incident and have been bailed pending further enquiries to report back on September 4.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate on 101, or by email at scdappeals@essex.pnn.police.uk.