A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a stabbing in Whitehaven.

Police were called to Brakeside Gardens, Woodhouse, at 2.15pm today to reports that a 43-year-old man had been stabbed.

The suspect, 61, is currently in police custody.

The victim was flown by air ambulance to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Newcastle. No further details of his injuries were available.

The cul-de-sac was cordoned off by police as officers carried out investigations and searched the area.

Residents have spoken of their horror following the incident.

Suzanne Falkner, 40, said: “I was lying in bed when I heard the sirens and my dogs alerted me so I looked out of the window.

“I didn’t see anything of what had happened just the police flying past. Then a helicopter came and two or three ambulances.

“You wouldn’t think it would happen on your own doorstep. I have three children and I’ve always wanted neighbourhood watch cameras put up.

“I hope after this something will be done, a lot of people here have young children and babies, and it’s not safe.”

Another resident, who did not wish to be named, said: “I only came back to sort my washing out and then it all kicked off.

“It was swarming with police.”

She said she had spoken to the victim, who is a friend of hers, and reassured him after the stabbing occurred before he was taken away by the air ambulance.

She said it didn’t take long at all for police or ambulances to get there.

Five police vehicles, including two Crime Scene Investigation vans, remained at the scene.

A police spokesman said: “A larger than normal police presence is expected to be in the area as investigations are carried out.”

Anyone with information should call police on 101 and ask to speak to Detective Sergeant 2244 Sam Johnson.

They can also email 101@cumbria.police.uk or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.