A man was stabbed three times in a late-night brawl involving dozens of people on a car park in a quiet South Staffordshire village.

Detectives sealed off the car park and adjoining footpath, in Gainsborough Drive, Perton, following the fracas shortly after midnight on Saturday morning.

The 33-year-old victim from Wolverhampton was taken to New Cross Hospital suffering from stab wounds and a head injury. Police have described his condition as stable, and his injuries are not thought to be life threatening.

A second man, also from Wolverhampton, was assaulted during the brawl and was also taken to hospital where he was treated for minor injuries before being released.

A 21-year-old from the city was arrested in connection with the brawl.

Forensics officers scoured the scene for clues, and police patrols have now been stepped up in the area.

Sgt Allan Jeffrey from Staffordshire Police said: “Inquiries are continuing into the circumstances surrounding this incident, and police patrols in the area have been increased in the area.”

One nearby resident, who asked not to be named, said they would like to see security in the area stepped up further.

“There seems to be groups meeting there regularly, and there was a sexual assault on the footpath a couple of years ago,” he said. “I think there should be cameras and possibly also the car park should be blocked off at night.”

The car park was reopened yesterday.

Sgt Jeffrey said: “Shortly after midnight on Saturday emergency services were alerted to an incident on a car park off Gainsborough Drive in Perton where it was reported approximately 20 people were fighting.

“On arrival a 33-year-old male from Wolverhampton was found to have suffered three stab wounds to the body and with a head injury.”

Anyone with information should call Chase CID on 0300 123 4455 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.