A MAN and a woman arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a man was stabbed in Blackburn have been released on bail.

Detectives were quizzing the 52-year-old man and 42-year-old woman in relation to the stabbing which happened inside a house in Oban Drive, Shadsworth on Monday afternoon.

The pair, who are both from Blackburn, have been bailed until October 20.

A 33-year-old man from Blackburn, who has not been named, was treated at the scene by police for a single stab wound to the chest, before being taken to Royal Blackburn Hospital by officers.

Police said the man remains in hospital where he is said to be making steady progress, although initially his injuries were described as critical.

A knife was recovered from the scene but police did not confirm whether it was the weapon used in the attack.

It is believed there was an altercation before the man was stabbed.

Police have not said what they believe the motive for the attack was.

Eyewitnesses said three properties were cordoned off in the immediate aftermath of the attack. There was a single property cordoned off, near to the junction with Skye Crescent, and there was also a police guard.

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Detectives are now appealing for witnesses to what they described as an ‘isolated incident’.

Det Insp Tim McDermott, said: “While the investigation is still in its early stages, we want to establish exactly what has happened and are particularly keen to speak to anyone who was in the Oban Drive area at the time of the incident.

“Furthermore, we want to talk to anyone who can assist with our enquiries.

“While the man is currently in a serious but stable condition, I must praise the quick-thinking actions of officers who no doubt prevented a more serious outcome.

“Medical staff at Royal Blackburn Hospital said the actions of both officers in correctly identifying the severity of the victim’s injuries, providing immediate medical attention and taking him to hospital in all likelihood saved his life.”

Community leaders said they were shocked to hear about the attack.

Shadsworth with Whitebirk ward councillor James Shorrock, who lives in Oban Drive, said: “It is shocking to arrive home from a day’s work and to see a police cordon and crime scene in close proximity to where you reside.

“While it was close to home and within 200 yards from where I live, it’s a purely one-off incident situation.

“There is no need for residents to be panicked by this. The police are on top of it and are doing a fantastic job.”

A 33-year-old man from Blackburn was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm but has now been released without charge.

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting log 904 of 22nd August.