Police Investigate Blackburn Knife Attack as Attempted Murder

Police are treating a knife attack on a 21-year-old as attempted murder.

The man was taken to hospital with injuries to his torso following an incident in Blackburn, West Lothian, on Friday morning.

Detectives are following a positive line of inquiry on the attack at a property on Mosside Road at around 8am.

The 21-year-old managed to drive himself away from the street before calling for help.

He is in a stable condition at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. Detective Sergeant David Macmillan said: "We are currently following a positive line of enquiry, however are eager to speak to any witnesses who may have been in the area at the time.''

Also in West Lothian, police said a 25-year-old man was left needing surgery after an apparently unprovoked attack involving a Stanley knife in Livingston.

The victim suffered cuts to his ear and neck in the assault and is being treated at St John's Hospital.

Detective Constable Jo McCall said: "Our investigation to trace the male responsible for this vicious attack is ongoing and anyone who witnessed anything suspicious around Eliburn Path to the rear of Beech Place and Aller Place about 2pm on Saturday afternoon is urged to come forward.

"The victim suffered serious and painful injuries to his ear and neck and has been admitted to hospital for surgery.

"This appears to have been a random and unprovoked assault and I would like to hear from anyone who saw the suspect in the area.

"In addition, anyone with any further information relevant to this inquiry should also contact police immediately.''

The suspect is described as white, around 25 years old, slim, and has brown "scruffy'' hair.

He was wearing a light blue tracksuit top, a black T-shirt, dark coloured tracksuit bottoms and blue trainers. He spoke with a local accent.