A MAN stabbed repeatedly in the stomach on Blackburn’s Shadsworth estate is in a stable condition, police said.

The Lithuanian, thought to be in his 30s, was attacked near Orkney Close on Saurday night.

An investigation into the stabbing, which happened around 11pm, was started and the area was cordoned off to allow forensic officers gather evidence.

Detectives said inquiries were ongoing yesterday and they were still searching for the weapon, which was believed to be a knife.

It was understood the man knew his attackers and the stabbing had followed an argument, with one resident claiming to have seen a group of up to 15 people involved in an altercation.

The victim was taken to Royal Preston Hospital for emergency treatment but had yesterday been transferred to the wards.

Det Insp Mark Vaughton said: "If anybody was in the area around the time of the assault and has any information which they think could assist our investigation then I would urge them to contact police."

Anybody with information is asked to call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

l A 22-year-old man, of no fixed abode, has been charged with a section 18 wounding with intent offence.Daniel Sedgwick is due to appear before Blackburn magistrates this morning.