A TEENAGER has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder in connection with a stabbing in Bolton town centre.

A 23-year-old man was stabbed multiple times in the early hours of Saturday.

Police were called to Nelson Square at around 5.40am by a member of the public reporting his friend had been stabbed.

A cordon was set up and parts of Bradshawgate, Bank Street and Brown Street were closed while police carried out an investigation.

Police have now established the stabbing took place on Bradshawgate.

Last night an 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and is currently in custody for questioning.

The victim was taken to hospital for treatment and lost 'a lot of blood' due to multiple wounds.

He required surgery and remains in hospital in a stable condition

A group of young men driving down Bradshawgate witnessed the victim being attacked and stopped to help. As they walked up a man ran off.

'It was absolutely horrific' - Man stabbed multiple times in town centre

They described him as drifting in and out of consciousness as they tried to help him. After realising he had been stabbed multiple times, thought to be four, they put the victim in the car trying to stem his bleeding with their hands as they drove him to the Royal Bolton Hospital. He has since been transferred to Salford Royal Hospital.

One of the group said: "It was absolutely horrific. I am shocked. I have never seen anything like this."

The group had seen the man earlier and described him as enjoying the evening.

Detective Inspector Tanya Kitchen of GMP’s Bolton Borough, said: “The man in custody will be questioned today as our inquiries continue and we still need people who have information about the stabbing to get in contact with us.

“I understand the concern this has caused but I want to make it clear, we are making every effort to get to the bottom of this and will make sure those responsible answer for their crimes.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting reference number 548 of 16/12/17 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.