Two arrested after brawl ends in stabbing

CORDONED off . . . Royton Park

POLICE have made two arrests after a man was stabbed several times in a violent brawl in Royton Park.

Officers were called to reports of a group of men fighting with knives and baseball bats in the Bleasdale Street park, off Rochdale Road, just before 11pm on Friday.

When they arrived the men had fled, but a 34-year-old man was taken to Manchester Royal Infirmary with multiple stab wounds.

His injuries are said to be serious but not life-threatening and he has been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm.

Injured

A 52-year-old man, who is also thought to have been injured, was arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and remains in custody.

Officers found weapons which had been left behind.

One of the park's entrances and part of Radcliffe Street was cordoned off yesterday morning as crime scene investigation and tactical aid officers searched the scene.

Families were initially unable to attend the Inflatable Easter Fun event which had been in the park since April 1, but it later reopened.

It has now moved to Uppermill as planned.