A MAN was left fighting for his life in hospital last night with 'horrendous' injuries after being stabbed in the neck and robbed by a masked attacker in Greenock.

The 39-year-old was walking to his girlfriend's house for dinner when a hoodie-wearing thug plunged a blade into him and grabbed his wallet and mobile phone.

The sickening assault — which has sparked a huge police operation — took place at around 7.05pm last night on a stairwell linking Inverkip Road with Pennyfern Road.

Detective Inspector David Wagstaff of Greenock CID — who is leading the inquiry — told the Telegraph: "This appears to have been an horrific and totally unprovoked attack.

"We are focusing all our efforts on tracing the assailant, and further resources from Paisley will be joining the operation — but we need the assistance of the public."

The man left his own home around 6.20pm to walk to his girlfriend's home.

It is believed that the victim — who remains in hospital today — was set upon towards the top of the public stairwell. He managed to stagger as far as Branchton Station on Inverkip Road before being found by a member of the public.

DI Wagstaff added: "We would ask anyone who can help with this inquiry to contact us on the 101 number or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."