UPDATE: Police still searching for weapon as man stabbed in Poole Park

The victim, a 59-year-old local man, was walking through the park on Saturday evening when he was approached from behind by the offender and stabbed once in the stomach.

The victim managed to walk to Poole Hospital where he underwent surgery and remains in hospital receiving treatment.

His condition is not life-threatening, police say.

The offender, a white man aged in his early 30s and of a large build, ran off towards the war memorial.

He was around five feet ten inches tall and had short cropped hair and a round plump face. He was wearing dark trousers and a dark jacket.

Officers were searching the area near the water fountain in the park all weekend, assisted by volunteers from Dorset Search and Rescue.

A large number of police officers have been seen searching bushes in Poole Park. 

If anyone finds a knife or sharp object in Poole Park or discarded nearby, they are urged to not touch the item but call Dorset Police immediately.

A police spokesperson said: "We would like to reassure the public that this was an isolated incident.

"Officers have been carrying out increased patrols in the area and there has been a significant increased police presence in the park while we investigate the incident." 

The assault happened sometime between 6.15pm and 7pm on Saturday, January 23.

Detective Sergeant Ben Morgan, of Bournemouth CID, said: “This was an unprovoked assault and there will have been people in the park at the time of day the incident occurred.

“I am appealing to anyone who may have seen the incident or anyone acting suspiciously around the time of the assault to contact me on 101.

“It is likely there may be an increased police presence around the Poole Park area while investigations into the incident continue.”

An eye witness said search teams were combing the grass opposite the Poole Park crazy golf course and the golf course itself.

One of the team was using a metal detector, while others were searching the waterside area near The Kitchen.

The search team were also looking in hedges at Poole Park Bowling Club, as well as in bins around the park.

There is no cordon in place.

Witnesses and anyone with information are asked to call Dorset Police on 101 quoting incident number 23:313. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.