MURDER hunt detectives have issued an urgent plea for witnesses following last night's fatal stabbing in Greenock's east end.

It comes after the death of a 23-year-old man in Belville Street. He was found with serious injuries after being attacked around 11.20pm, and died at the scene shortly afterwards.

It's understood that the police are already following a definite line of inquiry.

Detective Inspector Alan McAlpine of Police Scotland’s Major Investigation Teams (West), said: “We are currently trying to establish the events leading up to the disturbance in Belville Street which ultimately resulted in the death of this young man.

“It is vital that we speak to anyone who was in the vicinity of Belville Street around 2320 hrs last night and may have witnessed activity there, or perhaps seen the suspect or suspects running off.”

Anyone with information should contact Greenock Police Office via telephone number 101. Alternatively calls can be made via CRIMESTOPPERS ON 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained.