A man who was found stabbed in the street by a police officer was last night in a serious condition in hospital.

The 22-year-old, who has not been named, had been stabbed three times in the lower torso. Police are still trying to discover why he was attacked.

The victim was found in Mill Street, Wantage, by an officer on routine patrol at about 1am on Sunday.

He was taken to hospital, where he underwent surgery. He was described as being in a "serious but stable" condition.

Police are appealing for witnesses and are hoping several people in Mill Street, at the time the man was found might be able to help.

Det Insp Paul Miller said: "Our investigations are at an early stage and it isn't clear yet what exactly happened in this incident.

"We are very keen to speak to anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in Mill Street.

He added: "It's believed there were a number of other people in the Mill Street area at the time and we hope someone may have seen something."

An 18-year-old man has been arrested and was yesterday being questioned by detectives.

Anyone with information should call Det Insp Miller on 08458 505505 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.