Forensics officers investigate Bournemouth stabbing

Two areas of the Lower Gardens have been cordoned off by police following the unprovoked attack, which took place late on Tuesday.

An 18-year-old man was taken to hospital with a stab wound to the chest. He remains in a critical condition.

This morning a footpath, two benches and a bin near Westover Road has been taped off while a larger section of the gardens between the crazy golf course and Pier Approach is also blocked.

Crime scene investigators were seen taking photographs this morning, while a number of yellow marker cones to pinpoint potential evidence had been placed on the ground.

Pedestrians are still able to make their way through the Lower Gardens using the other available footpaths.

As reported, detectives have launched an investigation over the serious assault and are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.

• Read more: Man, 18, stabbed in the chest in attack in Bournemouth's Lower Gardens

Dorset Police received a report that at around 11.50pm last night a young man had sustained a stab wound in the town centre area.

The victim had been walking in the gardens toward Bournemouth Pier with two friends when they walked past a man and a woman who were sitting on a bench.

As they walked past, the man began shouting and got up and assaulted the victim before he and the woman made off in the direction of Bournemouth Square.

The offender is described as wearing all black clothing with a black hat and a mask. The woman he was with is described as white, short and chubby.

Information to Dorset Police on 101, quoting occurrence number 55210091147, or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.