Two women have been arrested on suspicion of carrying out an alleged "acid attack" and possessing a firearm.

Watford roofer John Chapman, 36, reported being approached by two people in Hilfield Lane, Aldenham, on March 18 and having what was believed to be a corrosive substance thrown over him.

Today police confirmed two women, 34 and 31-years-old, have been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm (GBH), being in possession of an offensive weapon in a public place and for being in possession of firearms in a public place. 

The women remain in police custody and are assisting with enquiries, Herts Police said.

The victim was taken to Watford General Hospital following the attack, before he was transferred to a specialist burns unit at another hospital for treatment.

Detective Inspector Claire Richardson-Wabe of the Safeguarding Command who is the Senior Investigating Officer (SIO) said: “I am grateful to bring this arrest to the attention of the public.

“It has been a complex investigation since it was reported, and it has involved significant resources including specialist teams and the Local Crime Unit in Hertsmere.

“I am appealing to anyone who either witnessed the incident or has any vital information which may help our investigation to get in touch.”

Anyone with possible information can report it on 101, online at herts.police.uk/report, quoting crime reference number 41/22287/24.