A MAN was hospitalised with serious injuries after being stabbed in the gut.

Police have launched an investigation after the incident in Willingham Way, Colchester, on Wednesday night.

Officers were called by the ambulance service after the victim - a man in his 20s - told paramedics he had been stabbed.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “A man has been taken to hospital with an abdomen injury after an incident in Willingham Way, Colchester, on Wednesday.

“We were called at around 10.20pm by the ambulance service after the victim, aged in his 20s, reported he had been stabbed following an altercation.

“He has been taken to hospital for his injuries, described as serious but not life threatening.

“We are continuing to investigating the incident.”

The East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust confirmed they had sent an ambulance, rapid response vehicle and an ambulance officer after being told the man had been hurt.

Colchester Council’s public safety boss Mike Lilley (Lab) urged witnesses to get in touch with police and said knife crime penalties should be made tougher.

He said: “In a close knit community like Greenstead whoever did this will probably be known to someone.

“Please get in touch with the police, the sooner you do the sooner they can work to get these people off the streets.

“There is no reason for people to be carrying knives than to hurt people - it is as simple as that.

“It is time for the Government - whatever Government - to change the legislation and deter people.

“What is happening at the moment is just not working.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Colchester CID on 101 quoting incident 1080 of January 2.

Details can also be given to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or at crimestoppers-uk.org.