A is in a critical condition in hospital after being stabbed in the neck with a knife in the garden of his home.

Police are appealing for an anonymous caller to come forward to help them track down the person who carried out what they described as a "vicious attack" on 40-year-old Neil Prior.

Acting Detective Inspector Geoff Webb said: "This was a vicious attack on Mr Prior who suffered serious wounds. He is in a stable but critical condition in the intensive care unit at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford. He is lucky to be alive."

Police were called after paramedics answered an emergency call from a man at 10.40pm on Friday night at Marsh Court, Abingdon.

Police believe the anonymous caller could have been involved in the incident. Officers want to speak to the man because his statement could provide vital information to the inquiry.

Acting DI Webb said: "We would like to hear from anyone with information about this incident. We are particularly keen to hear from the person who called the ambulance. He is an important witness to this potentially life-threatening assault."

Police carried out house-to-house inquiries in the neighbourhood but they failed to throw any light on the incident. No-one heard shouting or unusual activity in the area. Mr Prior is single but is believed to have family in the Abingdon area.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505 or the anonymous Crimestoppers service on 0800 555 111.