Man in critical condition after shop stabbing

A man was in a critical condition in hospital today after suffering a stab wound during an incident inside a shop.

The victim, who is aged in his 30s, was injured at about 4.45pm yesterday in the Acocks Green area of Birmingham, West Midlands Police said.

Officers also confirmed that a woman who was also inside the shop received a cut to her arm at the premises in Yardley Road.

Det Insp Buck Rogers stressed that inquiries into the incident, which took place inside a small local shop, were at a very early stage.

The officer said: "We are aware that the offender left the scene on foot along Yardley Road towards Augusta Road, and we urgently appeal for anyone who was in the area around 4.45pm to 5pm to come forward and pass on any information they may have.

"This is a very busy road and many people will have been in the area, or passing through at the time.

"They could well hold information which may prove vital as this investigation progresses."