Knifeman still at large as his victim recovers from 'horrible' attack in Ilkeston

A 61-YEAR-OLD shopkeeper who was stabbed "multiple times" in an attempted robbery was expected to be released from hospital on Wednesday.

The victim, named locally as Peter Eizens, was taken to the Queen's Medical Centre after the incident on Monday morning.

A friend of the man said he was a big character with a passion for steam trains.

"This was a horrible incident and my thoughts are with him and his family," he added.

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"I'd ask anyone with any information to contact the police as soon as possible."

The assault happened at a house which adjoined Sue's Off Licence on the corner of Station Road and John Street in Ilkeston.

The number of stab wounds suffered by the victim and the weapon used are yet to be confirmed but a witness at the scene said there were "multiple" wounds.

Police have appealed for witnesses to the attack, which happened at 7.55am.

The scene was cordoned off and there were a number of police, including scientific support, at the scene for some hours.

A police spokeswoman said they had questioned witnesses and were looking into a group on Facebook as part of their inquiries.

She added: "It is one of many avenues the team will be exploring over the next few days."

The attacker is described as white, in his mid-20s, about 5ft 10in, of slim build and wearing dark clothing, a black scarf and black gloves.

After the attack, he ran off in the direction of Alvenor Street.

Paula Dulson, who lives in John Street with her husband and young son, said they were considering moving from the area.

She said: "It didn't used to be that bad around here. But we have started getting a lot of trouble lately and I have no idea why.

"It's getting quite scary, I have a young son and my husband is at work all day so I'm on my own and you do feel a bit threatened."

The 41-year-old added: "It's really troubling, the shopkeeper has always been really friendly and regularly said 'good morning' to me.

"The fact this can happen so close to my house is really nerve-wracking."

Labour ward councillor for Ilkeston central Glennice Birkin said people in her ward were very worried about crime.

She said: "It's usually problems with drugs in Ilkeston and I'm wondering whether anything like that sparked the incident at the shop.

"This used to be a really lovely community. The police do really try their best but, like everywhere, there's just not enough of them."

Detectives would like to speak to anyone with information about the incident.

Anyone with information should call Derbyshire police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.