A MAN is in a serious condition in hospital after suffering a suspected punctured lung and back wounds in an attack at a pub last night, police have confirmed.

The 41-year-old victim from Sutton, whose name has not been released, was assaulted at the Junction Inn, Junction Lane, Sutton shortly before 11pm on Tuesday.

The pub, near to St Helens Junction railway station, was sealed off for much of the day.

Despite rumours sweeping social media about the incident and a visible presence at the pub, detectives remained tight-lipped until this evening.

They eventually revealed a 35-year-old man had been arrested last night on suspicion of assault and has since been bailed.

A police spokesman said: "Emergency services attended and found a man with puncture wounds to his back. "He was taken to Fazakerley Hospital where he is being treated for a suspected punctured lung. His condition is described as serious but stable.

"A short time after the incident, a 35-year-old man from Sutton was arrested on suspicion of assault and public order offences and a 40-year-old woman, also from Sutton, was arrested on suspicion of public order offences.

"They were both questioned at a police station on Merseyside and have since been released on police bail pending further inquiries."

Detective Inspector Simon Draco, St Helens CID, said: "I understand people living in the Sutton area will be concerned but I want to reassure them that a number of lines of enquiry are currently being pursued in respect of this incident, which I believe to be isolated.

"I know it's a very close-knit community and I would appeal to people who may have any information about this incident to get in touch with St Helens CID on 0151 777 6803 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111."