Gardaí have appealed for witnesses to a serious assault in County Offaly overnight to come forward.

The assault occurred at McAuley Drive, Birr, County Offaly shortly after 1am this morning, Sunday 15-01-2017.

A man, aged in his mid 20's, suffered apparent stab wounds during the incident.

He was taken to the Midland Regional Hospital at Tullamore where his condition is described as critical.

Gardaí have arrested a man in his early 20's close to the scene and he is currently being detained at Birr Garda Station.

The scene has been preserved and technically examined.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses and anyone with information - particularly those who reside at or were in the McAuley Drive, Townsend Street, New Road and Pound Street areas between 12.30am and 1.30am this morning - to come forward.

Anyone who may have seen or heard anything unusual is asked to contact Birr Garda station on 057 9169710, The Garda Confidential Line, 1800 666111 or any Garda station.