A SCHOOLBOY was rushed to hospital following a knife attack in Larkfield.

The 16-year-old victim — who is understood to be a pupil at Inverclyde Academy — was set upon yesterday during an incident in the Cumberland Road area, near to Stafford Road, close to the school.

Police were called and detectives and scenes of crime specialists attended at the scene.

Officers could be seen scouring a cordoned-off area on Stafford Way South looking for evidence following the incident, which occurred at lunchtime.

Door-to-door enquiries were also carried out as both uniformed and CID officers remained in the area for a number of hours.

An onlooker told the Telegraph: "It looked like they were searching for a weapon."

It is understood that the victim received emergency medical treatment for lacerations to his hands.

He was discharged from Inverclyde Royal Hospital afterwards and is now recovering at home following the ordeal.

Detective Inspector David Wagstaff of Greenock CID confirmed this morning: "A knife was involved and used in this incident.

"The victim sustained injuries to his hands in the assault, which took place at around 12.45pm.

"We are following a positive line of inquiry.

"However, we are still appealing for witnesses and information as a matter of urgency."

Education bosses at Inverclyde Council have declined to comment on the circumstances of the incident, which is being treated as a serious assault.

A spokeswoman for the local authority said: "This is a police matter."

Information about the serious assault should be passed to the police via the 101 number, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111