TWO men were stabbed in a late-night gang attack after violence broke out following a Southampton house party.

Police are appealing for witnesses following the incident, with left victims aged 24 and 28 in hospital with serious leg and stomach injuries.

The Daily Echo understands that the stabbings, which happened on International Way, Weston, were sparked after a party in Copenhagen Towers in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Detectives launched a house-to-house search and carried out forensic examination of the scene and surrounding area and are continuing to follow up and information provided by the public.

Two 18-year-old men and a 17-year-old boy were arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm and have been bailed by police.

Detective Sergeant Paul Harrison of Hampshire Constabulary's Western Investigation Team said: "Witnesses are detailing that this is linked to a party in one of the flats at Copenhagen Towers, and we believe it's an isolated incident involving people within this party.

"We'd like to thank all those members of the public who have come forward and helped with our inquiries so far.

"Our initial investigation has established that this is an isolated incident with no wider immediate risk to the rest of the community.

"Additional patrols have been carried out in the area to provide reassurance and encourage people to come forward with any information."

It is believed that the attack happened at about 4am on Saturday, with disorder in the hours leading up to the incident.

One of the 18-year-old men and the 17-year-old boy were arrested early on Saturday and later released on bail, while the second 18-year-old was arrested later in the day.

All three have been bailed until August 25, pending police inquiries, and police are keen to hear from people in the area.

Detective Harrison said: "The focus of our appeals in the community are towards anyone who was in the area of International Way between 2am and 4.30am on Saturday.

"Did you witness the assault itself? Did you see anyone leaving the area in a hurry?"

Witnesses or anyone with information is asked to contact detectives at Southampton Central police station by phoning 101 and quoting Operation Face with reference number 44150208917, while mini-com users can phone 18001 101.

Information can also be given anonymously by phoning the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555111.