A man was in hospital with serious injuries last night after being stabbed while playing cricket in an East Oxford park.

The victim was approached by a group of men and stabbed several times after a fight broke out in Cowley Marsh Park shortly after 8pm on Monday.

Three 17-year-old boys, a 15-year-old boy, two 18-year-old men, a 21-year-old man and a 24-year-old man were being questioned by officers last night after they were arrested on suspicion of GBH.

Police said the victim was taken to the John Radcliffe Hospital with “serious injuries”. His condition was not known last night.

Det Insp Simon Morton, investigating, said the victim was known to his attackers.

He said: “I would also like to reassure local residents that we do not believe this was a random incident.

“I know that there were people in the park at the time that would have seen what happened and will be able to assist us with our enquiries.

“I would urge these people to come forward and speak to us and help us with our investigation.

Witnesses should call 08458 505505 or Crimestoppers anonymously 0800 555111.