A man was taken to hospital after suffering stab wounds near the King George V playing fields in Stevenage last night.

The attack occurred between 8pm and 8.20pm under the footbridge between the Tesco superstore and Ditchmore Lane at the edge of Stevenage Old Town.

A 32-year-old victim was taken to the town’s Lister Hospital, after ambulance crews treated him at the scene for injuries to his back and arm.

He was in a stable condition when admitted to hospital.

Armed police were sent to the scene and officers believe four offenders may have been involved, but no arrests have yet been made.

Anyone who witnessed what happened should contact Herts police on 101 quoting crime reference number E1/16/6391.

In a separate incident, police were called to reports of a man seen walking along Watson Road with what was believed to be a samurai sword in a case.

Officers attended and searched the area and two men were detained.

However, following enquiries, police could not confirm the man was carrying a weapon and no weapons were found.

Police could find no evidence that any offences had been committed.