DETECTIVES investigating a stabbing in a Worcester alleyway are searching for an eight-inch knife used in the attack.

A 22-year-old man spent Christmas Day in intensive care with a serious stomach wound after the fight near Tramps nightclub in the city's Angel Place in the early hours of Christmas Eve. The victim was recovering at his Pershore home.

But officers said a kitchen knife used in the assault, and then thrown away in the Five Ways area of The Butts shortly after the incident, had not yet been found.

Worcester police - who said they were encouraged by the response to yesterday's appeal for information - have searched the area but failed to find the weapon.

They want anyone who discovers the knife to contact them.

"We're very keen to find weapon," said police spokeswoman Vicki Davis. "We'd urge anyone who finds the knife, which could have been thrown into someone's back yard, to contact Det Con Pete Morgan on 01905 723888.

"Alternatively, they can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111."

A man was arrested in connection with the stabbing and charged with assault causing grievous bodily harm.

He appeared before Worcester magistrates on Boxing Day and was granted conditional bail.