POLICE have launched a witness appeal after a man was stabbed in the back in a Southampton city centre park.

Officers want to speak to any witnesses who saw the stabbing, which took place near to the Titanic Engineers' Memorial in East Park.

Police say the incident took place just before 8pm on Monday, March 4.

The 35-year-old victim, remains in hospital with serious injuries.

Part of East Park has been cordoned off today as officers carried out enquiries at the scene.

Police have since issued a statement, asking witnesses to come forward, while attempting to reassure Southampton residents.

Chief Inspector Phil Lamb said: “We understand that incidents of this kind can cause concern amongst those who live and work in Southampton.

“Keeping people safe in the city is a priority for us and our partners.

"We work with the city council to make the city as safe as possible."

Mr Lamb added that officers did not believe the incident posed a risk to the wider public.

He added: “Tackling crime requires a cross sector approach, not just a police response.

"We’re grateful to our partners, including Southampton City Council, who work closely with us to identify and deliver measures to improve safety and security in our communities.

"We would also ask the community to work with us and report any concerns to us.”

We arrested three people in connection with the assault shortly after the incident occurred last night.

As previously reported in the Echo, a 23-year-old woman, a 23-year-old man and a 24-year-old man have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

They remain in police custody today and continue to be questioned by officers.

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 and quote 44180450724.