AN ATTEMPTED murder investigation has been launched after a man was found with stab wounds in Southampton.

The 49-year-old victim was found with serious injuries in Wilton Avenue before being rushed to hospital where he remains at the time of writing.

The incident took place between 6.30pm and 6.45pm on Monday with police officers in the area on Tuesday carrying out enquiries into the exact circumstances of what happened.

Wilton Avenue was taped off in both directions and its junction with Milton Road blocked for most of Monday night.

One resident described his shock at returning home to find around 12 officers and two forensics teams on his doorstep at around 10pm.

He said: "The police cordon had enclosed my home and the entrance to my building was taped off."

"The investigation team came round and was knocking our doors.

"All I want to do is come home and go to bed and not have to be escorted by the police."

Another resident who wished to remain anonymously reported hearing shouting in the streets and youths in the area.

A Wilton Avenue resident added: "I got home at around 10pm and there were police everywhere. They took me to my front door and told me not to leave.

"I did not know what was going on. It was quite scary."

Officers are now keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed anything during the attack.

A 49-year-old man, from Southampton, has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in custody at this time.

A police spokesperson said: "We’re appealing for witnesses and CCTV following a serious assault that took place in Crossley Place, Wilton Avenue Southampton.

"Were you in Crossley Place area around this time on Monday? Did you see or hear anything? Do you have any CCTV? Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting 44200061554, or call the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

A South Central Ambulance Service spokesperson added: "I can confirm that we were called to Wilton Road yesterday (Monday) at 6.40pm. We sent to the scene an ambulance crew, critical care car and an ambulance officer who was assessing and treating one patient.

"Following that treatment, the patient was taken to hospital."