DETECTIVES hope people in Darwen can help them find a man they want to speak to in connection with a stabbing in the town.

Officers released a photograph of Geoffrey Bird, 29, two months ago after a vicious attack on two men in Sudell Road, believing he regularly visits the town. But since then there have been no reported of sightings of the man or any indication where he is.

The incident happened at 4am on Sunday, July 25, when 17-year-old Dean Maitz was stabbed in the abdomen. The knife exited through his back, puncturing his lung. He also suffered cuts to his hands and arms trying to fend off his attacker but he has now made a full recovery.

A second victim had serious abdominal injuries and cuts to his arms and legs. It is thought the men were in a group walking from one party to another when an argument broke out in the street.

Adrian Dutton, 24, of Anchor Avenue, Darwen, but now living in Stockport, was charged with attempted murder and a further charge of wounding in connection with the attack. He pleaded not guilty to both at Preston Crown Court this week.

Detectives now want to speak to Bird, who lives in the Manchester area, as they believe he was also at the scene. Det Insp Ian Critchley, from Blackburn CID, said: "Geoffrey Bird still has not been found. We know he has associates in Darwen but there have been no sightings of him since the incident.

"We think now is a good time to reissue the appeal for information and would like to hear from anyone who knows Geoffrey Bird or knows of his whereabouts."

Anyone with information should contact Blackburn CID on 01254 353569. Alternatively they can give information confidentially via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.