EXTRA police were on patrol in Chorley Old Road on Saturday following two stabbings within 100 yards in less than 24 hours.

Police are hunting three men in connection with the second incident, which happened off Chorley Old Road at 7.40pm on Friday.

A 19-year-old was sitting in his blue Vauxhall Vectra which was parked in Turk Street when he was attacked by three men.

One sat next to him in the vehicle, while the other two stood next to the driver's side window.

The victim was stabbed in the neck, but his condition is not thought to be life threatening. He remains in a stable condition at the Royal Bolton Hospital.

Akbar Shah, who works at Syd's takeaway opposite where the attack took place, went over to help the victim.

He said: "One of the customers saw what happened and shouted to call the police.

"We went over to help and there was blood everywhere. He was slumped in the car and blood was coming out of his nose and mouth.

"The police and ambulance arrived quickly and moved everyone away."

After the victim had been stabbed the offenders ran along Back Chorley Old Road towards Shepherd Cross Street.

They are described as white men of slim to medium build aged in their late teens to early 20s and all wearing dark clothing.

Det Insp Andrew Cunliffe, of Bolton CID, said: "This is a serious incident, which has left a man in hospital.

"We are keeping an open mind in relation to the motive for the attack.

"However I must stress that this incident could have proved fatal and we need to catch the people responsible.

"Extra patrols were drafted into the area to provide reassurance to the local community.

"If anyone saw the three men as they ran towards Shepherd Cross Street or if you know who committed this crime please get in touch."

Earlier that day, at 1.40am, a 24-year-old man was taken to hospital needing surgery after being stabbed during a row over cigarettes.

Any witnesses should contact Bolton CID on 0161 856 5740 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.