A MAN who was stabbed eight times in a vicious Westcliff street attack is no longer in a life-threatening condition.

The victim’s condition has improved as police are continuing to hunt Eric Brophy, 18, who has links to the Southend and Dagenham areas. He is wanted by detectives in connection with the stabbing in Fairfax Drive.

An 18-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after the attack, which happened at 7pm on Thursday , has now been released on police bail until September 2.

The 20-year-old victim was described by one eyewitness as being “peppered” with stab wounds after the assault. He is still receiving hospital treatment but is now in a more stable condition.

Local police officers say these attacks are rare but have stepped up patrols around the Fairfax Drive area to reassure the public.

Anyone who knows of Brophy’s whereabouts is urged to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Member of the public are urged not to approach Brophy and if they are in the immediate vicinity of him to contact police on 999 immediately.

Police would appeal to Brophy to hand himself in at the nearest police station as soon as possible.