POLICE have made an urgent appeal for information in their hunt to find a man wanted in connection with a stabbing.

A 34-year-old man was wounded in the back in Northallerton on Wednesday morning. He underwent surgery but his injuries were not life-threatening.

Officers are currently searching for Jonathon Michael Doherty, 36, from Northallerton, who is believed to have been involved in the attack on Wednesday, December 17.

Detective Inspector Shaun Page, of Northallerton CID, said: “It is vital that Jonathon Doherty is arrested as soon as possible in connection with the stabbing incident in Northallerton on Wednesday morning.

“Extensive police enquires remain ongoing to locate him and we are appealing for the public’s help to assist the search.

“If anyone knows where he is or you have possibly seen a man matching his description, please do not approach him and call the police immediately on 999.”

Making a direct appeal to Mr Doherty, DI Page added: “Jonathon, if you see or hear this appeal, you need to think very carefully and do the right thing by handing yourself into the police.

“The longer you evade the police the harder you are making it for yourself.”

Mr Doherty is described as white with dark brown hair, brown eyes, 5ft 10in tall, medium build and speaks with a Yorkshire accent.

North Yorkshire Police said the attack was a targeted but isolated incident and the wider community are not at risk.

Anyone who saw anything suspicious in the Crosby Road area of Northallerton on Wednesday morning is asked to call police immediately. The injured man, who is also from Northallerton, was admitted to the town's Friarage Hospital at 9.50am.

Anyone who can help can call North Yorkshire Police on 999.

Information can also be passed to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Quote reference number 12140217413 when providing information about this investigation.