Detectives were today continuing their investigations after spending most of yesterday combing the area, including residential flats, but police sources are as yet unclear as to where the attack took place.

Forensic experts were at the crime scene, watched by curious shoppers.

Detective Inspector Tony Quinn, who is leading the investigation, said: "He is a local male who is suffering from stab wounds to the torso. We would like any information from anyone who was in and around Newborough at the junction with St Thomas Street."

The injuries are not life-threatening. One woman eyewitness, who did not wish to be named, said she was walking home at 10pm when she saw the police vehicles and an ambulance.

She said: "We thought it might have been a bomb – they had cordoned off the whole section of the street." Police tape stretched across the top section of Eastborough.

She added: "They wouldn't say anything but one policeman admitted there had been a stabbing.

"They couldn't say any more because they didn't know how badly hurt the victim was. It's terrible because I live near there."

A police spokesman confirmed that two men were helping with their inquiries.

If you have information that can assist inquiries you can contact the Police on 0845 6060247.