Police statement as nurse stabbed at Greater Manchester hospital A&E

An investigation into the stabbing of a nurse at a Greater Manchester hospital is in its 'early stages' police say. It comes as they seek to reassure residents following the 'shocking' attack, which is being treated as attempted murder.

The woman, in her 50s, was stabbed whilst working at the Royal Oldham Hospital last night (Saturday). Officers raced to the hospital following the attack at around 11:30pm.

The victim remains in hospital for treatment for her 'serious' injuries, which are believed to be 'life-changing', Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said. She is currently in a critical condition.

The Manchester Evening news understands it happened in the A+E department of the hospital and that the victim, a nurse, was attacked with a 'sharp instrument', that wasn't a knife. Her friends and colleagues are currently receiving support.

A 37-year-old man was 'swiftly arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder' GMP said. He remains in custody for questioning. It is unclear at this stage if the man was a patient.

An enquiry is now underway. A police car could this morning be seen parked outside the hospital's A+E. A statement issued by GMP this morning said: "At 11:30pm last night (Saturday, January 11) we were called to Rochdale Road in Oldham to reports of a stabbing.

"It’s believed that a member of the public attacked a member of staff at Royal Oldham Hospital. The victim, a woman in her 50s, suffered serious injuries and remains in hospital for treatment. Her injuries are believed to be life changing.

"A 37 year old man was swiftly arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder. He remains in police custody.

"Whilst this investigation is in the early stages, we are not currently looking for anyone else