There are concerns that the reputation of Epping has been damaged by the stabbing of a man in the street, it is claimed.

A 31-year-old man knifed in the chest on Epping High Road at around 4am on September 6.

The man was left in a critical condition after undergoing surgery and is now stable.

Two men arrested on suspicion of attempted murder have been released on bail until October 22.

Town Clerk, Alan Shaw, said councillors are concerned over the "reputational damage incidents like this cause to the town."

He added that there is also concern over the effect that the subsequent closure of the High Street had on town's businesses over the weekend.

Businesses confirmed they had lost hundreds of pounds after being forced to remain closed for 24 hours on the Saturday.

Mr Shaw said: "Councillers have asked me to write to the local police and licensing section at the district council to express concern.

"[There] appears to be an increasing level of anti-social behaviour in the early hours at weekends and whether they have any plans in place to address it."

MP Eleanor Laing has said she will consult with police and the council on whether licenses should be amended.