A MAN is in a 'critical condition' in hospital after an assault in Abingdon late last night, police have confirmed. 

A 21-year-old man from the town has been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent following the Saxton Road incident, and is in police custody.

The victim, who is in his 20s, was attacked at around 10pm before being taken to hospital, where he remains in a critical condition. 

A scene watch remains in place while officers deal with enquiries.  

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Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector James Senior, of Force CID Oxfordshire said: “I would like to reassure the public that we believe this was an isolated incident where both parties were known to each other.

“We do not believe there is a risk to wider members of the community however there will be an increased police presence in the area whilst we conduct enquiries with local residents and conduct reassurance patrols.

“I would like to appeal to residents who may have seen or heard anything at this time to come forward and speak to police.”

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South Central Ambulance Service spokeswoman Michelle Archer added: "We were called at 9.51pm to Saxton Road to reports of an assault. 

"We sent to the scene a specialist practitioner, rapid response vehicle and an ambulance crew who were assessing and treating a male in his 20s.

"He was treated at the scene by all our crews and taken to the John Radcliffe Hospital."