A man who confronted a knife attacker in North Belfast with a hurling stick has had over £17,000 raised for him via online donations. The GoFundMe page, set up by Niall Donnan, stood at £17,349 on Wednesday.

The stabbing occurred on Kinnaird Street around 10.30pm on Monday. A man in his 40s remains in a serious condition in hospital. Police arrested a male suspect at the scene.

North Belfast MP John Finucane praised those who stepped in, saying their actions may have prevented a death.

Maitiú Mag Tighearnáin said he was returning from hurling training with his son when he and a friend, Andre, saw the attack. He described striking the suspect with a hurley, while his friend attempted to subdue him. Another onlooker kicked the dropped knife away.

Mr Mag Tighearnáin said he was glad they had intervened and expressed hope the victim would recover. The fundraiser’s organiser stated all donations would be passed directly to him.