OFFICERS have sent off 400 different items to be forensically analysed in a bid to pin down another person responsible for a shooting on Canvey, police have revealed.

Callum Hutchins, 20, was arrested and charged after a gun was fired inside a car in Somnes Avenue on the night of Saturday, August 6.

However, police are committed to tracking down a second man they believe to be involved.

Chief Insp Glen Westley, district commander for Castle Point and Rochford, revealed the extent of the team’s investigation.

He said: “Forensics are analysing the car, clothing and swabs from people’s hands in case there is any gun residue.

“In total, about 400 items have gone to forensics to be examined.

“We have gone for the full belt and braces on it and we won’t stop.

“This does take time so we are waiting for the results. This is an ongoing investigation.”

William Tatham and Reece Johnson were shot in the neck and head during the attack and have fortunately both made a full recovery following hospital treatment.

Hutchins has been charged with three counts of attempted murder after Southend Crown Court heard this month that a third man - known only as Woody - was also injured the attack.

Hutchins, of Mornington Road, is also charged with possession of a shotgun with intent to endanger life.

He has been remanded in custody until a trial, which has been fixed for February 6 next year.

Mr Westley said: “Having someone charged with the Crown Prosecution Service’s backing is a significant step for us in this investigation and we are absolutely delighted with that.

“However there is still a lot of work still going on around it all.

“The team are dedicated.”

He continued to urge the Canvey community to come forward.

He said: “We want you to tell us what you know and give us something tangible.

“It could be the piece of the puzzle that we need.

“If you give the information to Crimestoppers, it will be held in confidence.”

Anyone with information can call Essex Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Alternatively they can visit crimestoppers-uk.org