A MAN who accidentally stabbed himself in groin in Cumbria while cutting up meat on the mend.

Chris Sharples tweeted a photograph of himself in hospital to the Evening Mail after seeing the story of his unfortunate accident online.

The Great North Air Ambulance was called to Long Marton near Brampton at 5.30pm on Thursday to assist road paramedics who had been called to a man in his 30s who had accidentally stabbed himself in the groin.

Mr Sharples was given blood on the scene and flown to James Cook Hospital in Middlesbrough with injuries which were described as critical/life-threatening.

Dr Theo Weston, from the Beep Fund which provides emergency doctors, was among those called to assist the North West Ambulance Service.

Dr Weston said: "While cutting up meat, the kitchen knife the man was using slipped and caused a very deep and significant wound in his leg.

"As a result he lost a very large amount of blood. His condition was deemed critical and he was treated at the scene for his injuries.

"When the Pride of Cumbria Great North Air Ambulance arrived he was given a blood transfusion before being flown to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle for more treatment."

Mr Sharples told the Evening Mail from his hospital bed: "I'm doing well, up and about now able to walk (hobble) unassisted. Should be out by midweek.

"Again I'm eternally grateful to all involved in saving me. All of them are absolute heroes - paramedics, doctors, air ambulance and the surgeons."