A MAN was stabbed outside the Junction Pub in Rainford on Saturday night, police have confirmed.

Two men entered the News Lane venue at about 11pm before becoming involved in an altercation with a third man.

The altercation continued outside the pub before the third man was stabbed.

The two men left in a white SUV and the victim was taken to hospital for treatment to a non-life threatening stab wound.

Enquiries are ongoing to locate those responsible and anyone with information is asked to contact police.

Detective Inspector Jackie Guinness said: “This incident occurred outside a busy pub on a Saturday night and we know that a number of people must have witnessed it, or the altercation which took place prior inside the pub and I would urge those individuals to come forward.

“Knife crime is simply unacceptable and thankfully, the victim in this case sustained only minor wounds but this could’ve been a lot worse and we will do all that we can to bring those responsible to justice.

“CCTV, witness and forensic enquiries are ongoing and I would ask anyone with information, or possible dashcam footage from the area, to please get in touch. Your information could prove vital to the investigation.”

Please contact @MerPolCC, 101 quoting ref. 19100361704 or @CrimestoppersUK, anonymously on 0800 555 111 with information