A LITHUANIAN man left fighting for his life after being stabbed has admitted to police that the injuries were self-inflicted, according to officers.

The 26-year-old man, who was injured in Bishop Street, Nelson, is suffering from depression after losing his job, police said.

Officers have now closed their investigation.

Four men who were arrested on the suspicion of wounding have been released without charge.

The man suffered two stab wounds to his neck and further knife injuries to his abdomen on Sunday night.

He was described as being in a critical condition earlier this week having lost a lot of blood.

The man is now being treated in the Royal Blackburn Hospital, where his condition was last night described as being serious but stable.

Friends and family members in the area are helping to care for the man.

Detective Inspector Derek Jones said: "The man was interviewed yesterday in hospital when he confirmed that the injuries were self inflicted.

"It may have possibly occurred through depression and he is getting support from the health and social services for this.

"He was working over here but had recently lost his job and become a bit depressed.

"He has regained consciousness and is recovering. His condition is described as stable although the injuries he sustained were very severe.

"This was not a violent attack by someone else but a self harm incident and we want to reassure the public.

"We are closing the investigation."