A MAN has appeared before Blackburn magistrates charged with attempting to murder his 29-year-old son.

The court heard Michael Heaton received a single stab wound to the heart area during an incident at a house in Cog Lane, Burnley, on Sunday.

Police administered emergency first aid at the scene before Mr Heaton was rushed to hospital where he underwent surgery for a punctured lung. His heart was not damaged.

Drew Barrow, prosecuting, said a knife with a 10in to 12in blade was recovered from the scene.

Andrew Michael Heaton, 50, of Cog Lane, Burnley, appeared in court charged with attempting to murder his son on Monday.

He was sent in custody to Preston Crown Court where he will appear on January 5.

Salina Akhtar, defending, said there would be no application for bail. “There are serious concerns about his mental health,” said Miss Akhtar.