MP Eleanor Laing could push for nightclub opening hours to be restricted after the stabbing of a man in Epping. 

A 31-year-old man from east London was knifed in the chest and found collapsed in High Street at just after 4am on September 6.

He remains in a critical condition in hospital after undergoing surgery.

Police have not revealed whether any nightclub near the scene is forming part of the investigation, but the Epping Forest MP has said the attack has made her question the future of late-night venues in the town.

She said: “It is an appalling thing to have happened and I share the dismay of the people in what is supposed to be a quiet town.

“The attack has made me question whether it is right to have nightclubs operating so late here as it is attracting people from other areas.

“I have been making enquiries about the licences to see if anything can be done.

“I am more than happy about the idea of a higher police presence but that in itself does not solve the problem, we need to look at what is being served in these clubs.

“I am meeting with police officers very soon and this issue is one of the top things on the agenda.”

Two men were arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following the attack and bailed until October 22.

Residents have said there should be more police patrols late at night when nightclubs are emptying, claiming there are regular disturbances.

Epping Councillor Jon Whitehouse agreed that meetings should take place to discuss the attack.

He said: “Clearly the police, council and possibly clubs need to sit down at a table and review what happened that night.

“We also need to look at the conditions and whether police presence is sufficient at that time.

Essex Police have said there is no update in the investigation since two suspects were bailed.

Staff at the 'The Villa' nightclub have been contacted for comment.

Club 195 in Epping refused to comment.

For more on this story, see this week's Guardian - out Thursday