A MAN was stabbed in the arm in Leasowe in the early hours of this morning after challenging a group of youths who had been smashing windows.

Detectives say that at about 3.30am on Saturday, it was reported that a group of five or six youths were smashing the windows of a property on Kingham Close.

They were challenged by a man aged in his 20s who was then involved in an altercation with the group.

The youths then attacked him with a knife, causing a stab wound to his arm.

Emergency crews took the victim to hospital where he remains in a stable condition.

It was reported that the youths made off from the scene on foot and an investigation is ongoing to find them.

Detective Inspector Peter Rexwinkel said: “We are in the very early stages of investigating this incident, but it appears as though a group of youths were causing criminal damage to a home and when challenged by a man they have attacked him with a knife.

“We believe that neighbours came to his aid and we are appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident or have any information to please come forward.

“The group of youths, who were all wearing dark clothing, ran away from the scene on foot so if you live in the area any have CCTV footage, please check to see if you captured anything that could help our inquiries.

“Similarly, if you were driving in the area at the time of the incident, please review your dashcam footage and get in touch if you captured anything. Even the smallest detail could prove significant.

“We will not tolerate the use of knives or any weapons on our streets because we know the harm and devastation they cause.

“I would urge people to educate themselves and speak to their children and family members about the dangers of knife crime.

“There is no place for knives in our communities. I would urge anyone with information to get in touch so we can act on community intelligence or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

If you have any information on this incident contact the police's social media desk on Twitter @MerPolCC or Facebook ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ with any further information, quoting 24000611499.