DETECTIVES investigating a street stabbing that left a man with multiple wounds are being frustrated by a wall of silence.

The knifing victim - a 41-year-old local man - was taken from Kirkham Fold, Rainhill to hospital on Sunday morning after suffering stab injuries to his abdomen and thigh.

Another man was later arrested on suspicion of attempted murder – following a stand off in Knowsley Village – and bailed while the police inquiry continues.

The victim, wounded three times and his condition, was initially in a serious condition, but he was due to be discharged as the Star went to press.

His failure to cooperate with detectives, however, is believed to be hindering the investigation.

Officers had been called at 7am by members of the public who had found the man in the street with stab wounds.

Another man at the scene, aged 30, was treated for facial injuries.

Later on Sunday officers surrounded Homer Road in Knowsley Village, where a man they wanted to question in connection with the stabbing and assault was believed to be.

A wide area was cordoned off, as a siege developed. Armed police were positioned at the scene, according to some reports.

A police spokesman said: “No-one else was injured during the incident and there was no threat to the general public.

“A 31-year-old man at the property was arrested later on Sunday morning on suspicion of attempted murder. He has been released on bail pending further enquiries.”