A MAN has been stabbed twice earlier this morning, merely hours after the New Years countdown finished, causing police to seek witnesses of the incident.

The incident took place at around 2.30am in Crane Close, Shinfield Road, Reading,beside the Best Kebab shop.

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A man had approached various members of the public close to the shop, leading to an altercation between the man and another member of the public, who was then stabbed twice by the attacker.

The attacker left on foot towards Lower Earley after this incident, and police are seeking witnesses to the attack.

At around 10pm yesterday (December 31) the same man was seen in the area asking members of the public for a cigarette. 

The attacker has been described as a black man aged between 25-30, between 5'9" and 5'10" tall with a skinny build.

He also had a small moustache, short curly brown hair, and was wearing blue jeans and a gray hooded top. 

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The victim of the stabbing was taken to hospital for his injuries, however has since been discharged. A 24-year-old man from Reading has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and is currently in police custody.

Detective Chief Inspector Jon Groenen said: “This was a serious assault that occurred in the early hours of the morning.

“I believe that there will have been a number of witnesses and I am appealing to anybody who was in the vicinity and believes that they witnessed this incident to please contact police.

“I would also ask anybody who was driving in the area and may have dash-cam footage, to please check this and get in touch if it has captured anything that can assist this investigation.

“You can make a report via 101 or by making a report online, quoting reference number 43210000149.

“Alternatively, for 100% anonymity, you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

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Local Policing Area Commander for Reading, Superintendent Nick John, said: “At this early stage of the investigation, we believe this to be an isolated incident which led to a man being stabbed as a result of the altercation.

“I appreciate the concern that this incident will cause in the local community, but I would like to re-assure the public that we are investigating this thoroughly and there will be an increased presence of police officers in the area while we look to ascertain what has happened.

“I would ask anybody who has any concerns to please not hesitate to speak to one of our officers, or call 101, quoting reference number 43210000149.”