POLICE officers on patrol found a 25-year-old man who had been stabbed in the stomach after a row in Northumberland Square, North Shields, shortly after 5pm tonight.

They applied first aid to the man, who was bleeding heavily, until an ambulance arrived to take him to North Tyneside General Hospital. He was not badly hurt and was later released after treatment.

Other officers on patrol spotted a man behaving suspiciously a short time later. He ran off but was quickly caught and the 26-year-old was arrested nearby on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm. A knife was recovered nearby.

Anyone with information is asked to call North Shields CID on 08456 043 043, extension 63144 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.