A MAN is due in court today (August 22) after being charged with attempted murder after a nine-year-old girl was stabbed in Christchurch.

The incident unfolded at around 5.45pm on Tuesday (August 20) at an address in Glider Close.

Now, a 28-year-old man has been charged with attempted murder and possession of an offensive weapon.

Police said the victim remains in hospital receiving treatment to injuries that are not life-threatening, with officers providing support to her and her family.

A local woman aged in her 50s who was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender has been released without charge and will face no further action.

Detective Chief Inspector Aimee Schock, of BCP CID, said: “After enquiries carried out by detectives, we liaised with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) who authorised the charges.

“There will continue to be an increased policing presence in the coming days and we would urge anyone to approach an officer with information or concerns.

“I would like to thank the community for their ongoing support.”