A MAN was stabbed in the back in a "cowardly attack" outside a Chelmsford nightclub early on Sunday.
The victim had been celebrating a friend's birthday at The Purple Lounge and was outside the Springfield Road venue when he was stabbed from behind.
Police say he suffered one deep wound to his lower back but is in a stable condition in hospital.
Chief Inspector Richard Phillibrown said: "This was an unusual and cowardly attack in the smoking area of the Purple Lounge where many people were socialising.
"I am sure someone either knows the person responsible or saw what happened. I urge them to come forward and assist our investigation."
A Marston's spokesman who own The Purple Lounge said: "The incident that took place Saturday evening outside the Purple Lounge is currently under investigation and is in the hands of the police."
Detectives investigating the stabbing want to hear from anyone who was in the smoking area of The Purple Lounge, at around 1am, and who may have information about the incident.
Anyone with information should contact detectives on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
