DETECTIVES were last night investigating the circumstances behind a mass brawl in which three men were taken to hospital with knife wounds.

Detective Sergeant Andy Fairlamb, who is leading the inquiry, said police were alerted to a fight involving several people at Clayton Street, outside the Grainger and Green Markets, in Newcastle, at 11.15am yesterday.

He said: "Three local men, aged 31, 33 and 39, were taken to hospital, where they were detained with knife wounds.

"Their conditions are not life-threatening and no arrests have been made. No weapons have been recovered.

"The exact cause of the fight is not known at this stage. The inquiry is at its early stage and is ongoing.

"We have a number of witnesses, but are looking for more people who may have seen anything, both inside and outside the Green Market."

Anyone with information is asked to call 0191-214 6555, ext 62144.