Man slashed in face (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Man slashed in face

8:49am Friday 23rd May 2008 in Swindon

A MAN was left with a six-inch slash wound across his face after an argument on his doorstep.

The incident happened in Bourne Road, Moredon, on Wednesday just before 11pm.

Insp Carly Nesbitt said: "A man living in Bourne Road opened his front door to a black man aged between 25 and 35 years old. He was wearing dark clothing and a dark hat.

"After a dispute the man who knocked at the door cut the victim across the cheek.

"Investigators are keeping an open mind, with a number of areas being examined, but it is believed there was a history between the victim and his attacker, but needless to say Wiltshire Police does not tolerate violent crime on the streets or in people's homes. We are following several lines of enquiry and will be increasing patrols in the area to reassure the community.

"We are asking members of the public in the area to contact the police if they see any dark clothing or sharp objects."

Last night, the 25-year-old Bangladeshi victim was still being treated at Great Western Hospital for his injuries, which were not thought to be life threatening.

Residents said they were shocked to hear of the violent attack. Maureen Royle, said: "I heard a lot of shouting and when I looked out of the window there were about 20 people out there.

"I didn't see any fighting though, then this morning I heard there had been a stabbing."

Next-door neighbour Barbara Feare said: "They're a really lovely family. I didn't hear anything because I'd taken sleeping tablets and I was out like a light."

William and Eileen Cusden, who live across the street, said they had been engrossed the Champions League final when the incident happened.

Eileen said: "I had just gone up to bed and I went to draw the curtains when I saw all the police cars out there."

Anyone who was in the area between 10.30am and 11.15pm on Wednesday is urged to contact Swindon police on 0845 408 7000.