TWO mental health staff stabbed in Oxford today are both in a serious condition in hospital.

Police have confirmed a 45-year-old man is being held on suspicion of attempted murder following the stabbings in Celandine Place, Greater Leys, at about 12.20pm.

A police spokesman said two men, who are members of mental health staff from the Warneford Hospital, were on a community visit when the incident happened.

Both have both been taken to the John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, where they are in a serious but stable condition, she added.

Oxford police commander Superintendent Brendan O'Dowda said: "I would like to reassure our community that this is a rare and isolated incident.

"We have a team of detectives investigating this incident and have increased patrols of police officers and police community support officers in the area.

"We are keen to speak to anyone who witnessed this incident or who has any information about it."

Scenes of crime officers are searching a flat in Celandine Place, while officers are also carrying out door-to-door enquiries.

The 45-year-old man arrested is in police custody.

Anyone with any information should contact Oxford CID via 08458 505505.

Alternatively, if you do not want to talk to police or leave your name, call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555111.