A WINSFORD man is seriously ill in hospital with stab wounds after an attack at the weekend.

During the attack his friend was also hit over the head with a bottle.

Police are hunting the attackers and are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.

The incident happened at about 10.30pm when two men, both in their mid 20s, and from Winsford, were heading for home through the Wharton estate.

They were set upon from behind by at least two attackers in a service area between Dee Way and Bradbury Road.

One man was hit over the head with a glass bottle and suffered minor head injuries.

It is believed the other victim was stabbed four times, twice in the stomach, once in the arm and once in the leg.

Both men were taken to Leighton Hospital where the man with the head injuries was discharged after treatment. The other victim remains in hospital.

Detective Constable Tony Jones said: "The victim is still in hospital and we are monitoring the situation. At this early stage we are treating it as a very serious assault."

Anyone with information should ring DS Nigel Groom or DC Tony Jones direct on 01244 613234 or ring Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555111.