POLICE are appealing to villagers to come forward with information about an unprovoked stabbing.
An un-named 20-year-old man was attacked as he was walking along a lane between Lyne Close and Front Street in Perkinsville, near Chester-le-Street, to buy cigarettes.
Two youths stabbed him in the back with a screwdriver and he suffered a collapsed lung. He was treated at the University Hospital of North Durham and later discharged.
The incident happened at about 6.15pm on Thursday, November 25.
Detective Constable Steve Frost said: "This was a nasty and totally unprovoked attack which left the victim seriously injured.
"The consequences of this attack could have been much worse and it is fortunate the victim is recovering from his injuries."
DC Frost appealed to anyone with information about the incident to call police on 0845 6060365 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
Two youths from the neighbouring village of Pelton, one aged 18, the other 19, have been arrested and released on bail while police make further inquiries.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article