THREE men have been arrested – one on suspicion of kidnap – following an attack which has left a Middlewich man ‘seriously injured’ in hospital.

Police were called to a flat in Wheelock Street just before 8pm yesterday, Monday, where a 47-year-old man was found with serious injuries and taken to Royal Stoke Hospital.

Officers traced the suspects to the car park of The Big Lock pub and restaurant, in Webbs Lane, around half an hour later and arrested a 50-year-old man from Middlewich on suspicions of assault and possession of a bladed article.

A 58-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of kidnap and a 51-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault causing grievous bodily harm.

Police have seized a car from the pub car park and will remain in the area while they investigate the circumstances into the assault.

DS Steve Smith said: “I would like to reassure residents that this is an isolated incident and arrests have been made. You will see a number of police in the area as we continue to investigate the incident.”

The men remain in custody assisting police with their enquiries.

Anyone with information should contact Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident number IML 139485.

Alternatively, information can be given anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.