A 16-year-old girl from Poole has been arrested following a serious assault in Bournemouth town centre.

Officers are keen to speak to a potential witness who helped at the scene, as she may have information that could assist the investigation.

Dorset Police received a report that at around 11.50pm on Tuesday 8 June an 18-year-old man had had been stabbed in the chest after being assaulted in Lower Gardens.

It was reported that the victim had been walking in the gardens toward Bournemouth Pier with two friends when they walked past a man and a woman who were sitting on a bench. As they walked past, the man reportedly began shouting and got up and assaulted the victim before he and the woman made off in the direction of Bournemouth Square.

The victim was taken to hospital for treatment and remains in a critical but stable condition.

Detective Inspector Shaun Inkpen, of Bournemouth CID, said: “We are continuing to investigate this incident and I would again urge anyone with information that might assist our investigation to please come forward and speak with the investigative team.

“It was reported that a black female assisted the victim’s friends when they were making a 999 call to police at the scene, but we have not been able to identify this individual. We are particularly keen to speak to her as she may have valuable information that assists the investigation.

“Officers have been carrying out increased patrols in the area and can be approached by any members of the public with information or concerns in relation to this incident.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55210091147. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call freephone 0800 555 111.