A man has been left fighting for his life after he was stabbed in New Addington earlier today (Wednesday, August 26).

Armed police descended on Central Parade in New Addington, Croydon, after gunshots were reported at the scene of the stabbing, which occurred some time before 3pm.

They found a 20-year-old man at the scene wounded from a stabbing, who has since been transferred to hospital.

An air ambulance helicopter was flown in to help rush the man to hospital as quickly as possible.

Police said his condition was assessed as life-threatening in hospital as they appealed for any witnesses to come forward and help them find out what happened:

"Called 1456hrs after man stabbed in Central Parade #NewAddington #Croydon.

"20-year-old victim taken to hospital by air ambulance.

"No arrests at this stage," a statement posted to Twitter by Croydon MPS read.

"Armed officers responded after reports of shots fired but no evidence of firearms discharge.

"Crime scene in place & enquiries ongoing. Witnesses - call 101 ref CAD 4246/26 Aug," the spokesperson for the borough police force added

"Please call 101 ref CAD 4246/26 Aug if you have information, video or images that could assist the police investigation."

Police later announced a dispersal order in the area where the stabbing took place  amid what they described as "further tensions" following the attack. 

London Ambulance Service were contacted for comment.