Detectives are appealing for information and witnesses following a stabbing in Downpatrick.

Police received a report shortly after 6pm on Saturday, 17th February that a man had been stabbed on a pathway in the St Dympnas Avenue area of the town.

The suspect, a man believed to be aged in his 30s, fled the scene on foot in the direction of Oriel Drive. He was wearing an all grey tracksuit and carrying a white plastic bag.

Officers attended, alongside colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service. The victim, aged in his 20s, sustained stab wounds to his stomach area.

He was taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries. His condition is believed to be serious but stable at this time.

Our investigation is underway and anyone who thinks they could help with our ongoing enquiries, or who saw the suspect flee the scene, can contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1299 17/02/24.

Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/        

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org