A MAN was stabbed three times as he walked home from work in Southampton.

The man, aged 24, was walking along Derby Road in the St Mary's area of the city when he was attacked near to the junction with Argyle Road. The motive for the attack is not known but the victim told police how he was approached by a group of men. One punched him in the face and then repeatedly punched him in the stomach.

He managed to escape from the gang and ran into Medina Stores in Clovelly Road. He then realised he had been stabbed twice in the stomach and once in his right thigh. His wounds were treated at Southampton General and although at first the injuries were thought serious he was later discharged.

Police are now hunting the gang that carried out the attack about 6pm on Saturday.

Det Sgt Richard Rowledge said: "It is of concern that an incident of this kind happened when families and other members of the community would be out and about on the streets of the city.

"We need to ensure that the people who carried out this offence are taken off the streets as soon as possible. Any information will be gratefully received. We would also hope that members of the local community report anything they hear to police in the knowledge that it will be treated in confidence."

Anyone with information can contact Det Sgt Rowledge at Bitterne CID on 0845 045 4545.