A MAN who was attacked in Newcastle yesterday afternoon is described as being in a stable condition.

The 48-year-old man from the Bishop Auckland area was rushed to hospital yesterday after suffering serious injuries in an unprovoked assault.

Northumbria Police have not released the full details of the incident but it is understood the victim was working in the west end of the city when he was stabbed in the neck.

Sergeant Dave Cole, Newcastle Area Command, said: "Officers are carrying out enquiries in order to establish what has happened and it would appear that this is a completely unprovoked attack. I'd like to reassure residents that we are doing everything we can to find who is responsible and would urge anyone with any information to contact the police."

The assault occured in Howlett Hall Road at approximately 3pm.

Police investigating the incident are carrying out enquiries in order to establish what happened and are urging anyone who was in the area or may have any information to get in touch.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Northumbria Police on 03456-043-043 extension 62372.