The stabbing at Gloucester Park Festival on 1 August and the stabbing at St Aldate Street, Gloucester on 13 August are linked and drugs related, police have confirmed.

In the Gloucester Park stabbing a 24-year-old man suffered a serious knife wound following a fight, and in the St Aldate Street incident a 23-year-old man suffered life threatening injuries.

Both men have since been discharged from hospital and a number of men have been arrested and released under investigation.

In another related incident in the early hours of Tuesday (29 August), two 33-year-old men from Gloucester were arrested on suspicion of possession of offensive weapons.

Officers seized two knives which were found inside a vehicle as part of their enquiries. These men have also been released under investigation.

Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Hannah Mackie of Gloucestershire police said: "Knife crime of this nature often arises from drug-related criminality and we believe the individuals concerned are known to each other.

"Despite a lack of cooperation from some of the victims we have been working around the clock to investigate this. We will be seeking charges against those responsible from the Crown Prosecution Service and we will continue our enquiries until we have traced all involved and brought them to justice.

"We want to reassure the public that we will not tolerate violence and knife crime. Even simply carrying a knife in a public place can lead to a lengthy prison sentence.

"We are dedicated to preventing more harm and violence within our community, to keep Gloucester safe for all who live and work here.

"I am so grateful to the public for their assistance so far and would like to encourage anyone who has any information or concerns around knife or drug crime to report it to us so that we understand what is happening and can take action.

"Anyone who witnessed or has any knowledge about either incident is urged to come forward, either via 101 or anonymously on Crimestoppers - online or 0800 555 111. The help and vigilance of the public in fighting this type of crime is essential."