MAN was “stabbed” in the back during a late night disturbance involving 20 young people.

The 23-year-old man and his friends were approached by members of a large crowd in Acacia Road which had just streamed out of a house party.

Police believe he was assaulted somewhere in the area of Merryoak Road, Cornel Road and Blackthorn Road, on Saturday night sometime between 11pm and 11.30pm.

Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Will Reid said: “He has received an apparent stab wound to his back. The injury is not lifethreatening and the victim was able to leave hospital the following afternoon.

“I would like thank witnesses and members of the public who have helped police with information so far. The type of rowdy behaviour and disorder reported in this area on Saturday will never be tolerated by police.

“There were many people nearby around the time of this alleged assault. We’re appealing to them directly to come forward and tell us what they saw and who may have been responsible.”

A 16-year-old girl from Southampton was arrested yesterday afternoon on suspicion of assault. She was later released with no further action.

Witnesses or anyone with information can contact CID at Bitterne police station by phoning 101. Mini-Com users can call the police on 01962 875000. Information can be given anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.