POLICE believe four Asian men may have vital information on a stabbing.

The attack happened at 9.20pm on Christmas Day, as a 21-year-old man was walking along Southfield Road, Middlesbrough. As he reached the junction with Abingdon Road, he was stabbed in the back.

He was taken to hospital, where he was detained for treatment to a muscle wound.

As the attacker made off, the victim was approached by four Asian men, who asked what had happened, before leaving in a Vauxhall Cavalier.

Police believe they may have witnessed the stabbing, and are anxious to speak to them. The four are asked to contact Detective Constable Mick Angus on (01642) 303140.