A MAN was left needing surgery after being stabbed in an early-morning attack.

Police are now investigating the stabbing, which occurred in St James’s Street, Brighton, between 6.30am and 7am on Saturday.

It happened near the junction with Camelford Street, close to The Bull Dog pub.

The victim, a 28-year-old man from Ifield, Crawley, was stabbed in the abdomen.

He was taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton, where he underwent surgery.

Detective Constable Leonie White of Brighton CID said: “The victim was possibly within a large group of men.

“Did anyone see this group or did anyone see its members running away from the scene?”

Email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101, quoting serial 249 of 10/1.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.