A HAMPSHIRE dad is today recovering in hospital after being stabbed in the neck in a vicious assault.

Colin Gover, 29, was targeted in the street outside his home in an attack which left a knife sticking out of his neck.

Detectives investigating the attempted murder have arrested five men.

Meanwhile, residents in Millbrook, Southampton, have spoken of their increasing fears of venturing out at night on the city estate.

Dad-of-two Mr Gover, who lives in Millbrook Towers, was returning to his flat when he was struck on the head with a bottle and then stabbed in the neck, at about 8pm on Tuesday.

Police say that a gang of youths fled from the scene, leaving Mr Gover with a knife sticking out of his neck.

Earlier, Mr Gover had told some youngsters to move off his landing, where they were drinking alcohol.

Mr Gover was rushed to Southampton General Hospital with injuries to his head, neck and chest, and is now said to be in a stable condition following the incident.

A 20-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, and a 25-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of violent disorder.

Following a witness appeal, detectives yesterday arrested a further three men, aged 21, 19 and 18, all on suspicion of attempted murder.

They are being questioned about the incident.

Yesterday, residents in the tower block spoke of their horror that "gentle giant" Mr Gover had fallen victim to such an attack.

Less than two years ago, his three-year-old son Charlie lost his fight against cancer, four months after he was diagnosed.

The boy's plight and cheeky smile had touched the community, and Millbrook people had raised nearly £2,000 to buy new toys for brave Charlie.

The Saint pub, where Mr Gover was a regular, held a special fundraising day when Southampton FC reached the FA Cup Final.

It is thought Mr Gover's partner, Karla Higginson, and two young children were yesterday with him in hospital.

One shocked neighbour, who lives on the same floor as Mr Gover, said: "He is a really nice bloke. He wouldn't harm a fly.

"We looked after his children while all this was going on the other night. It makes you pretty worried."

Former tenants' association member John McAllen, 69, said: "I don't know the family very well, but Colin is a gentle giant. He's a big lad, but never aggressive. In fact, he goes out of his way to be helpful. This is very sad and a bit of a shock.

"There have always been problems about security, with youngsters getting into the block. This is Problem Towers."

Detectives are still appealing for witnesses. If you have information, contact Shirley CID by calling 0845 045 4545 or phone the anonymous Crimestoppers number on 0800 555 111.