Detectives are appealing for information after a teenage boy was stabbed in what appears to be a targeted attack.

The 16-year-old had to be rushed to hospital after he was knifed in the thigh by a gang of young men following a party in Buckingham Road, Stratford.

As the teenager approached Gurney Road from Cruikshank Road the attackers surrounded him and attacked him and his friends, causing him to fall to the floor.

The assailants then kicked and punched him on the floor before he got up and ran away. They caught up with him and continued their brutal assault shortly after midnight on Saturday, February 18, stabbing him before running off towards Bramall Close.

The teenager then staggered to Heyworth Road where two members of public called an ambulance. He was taken to hospital and discharged the following day.

DC Mark Taylor of Newham CID said: “This violent attack on this young victim was totally unprovoked, and could have had graver consequences. It appears that the victim was targeted because the attackers believed he was from outside the area.

“We would urge anybody who knows something that could help us trace the attackers to speak to us. Any information passed to us would be treated in the strictest confidence.”

Anyone with information should call Newham CID on 02082 175 820.

Alternatively, tweet @MetCC or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if you would prefer to remain anonymous.

No one else was reported injured. No arrests have been made and enquiries continue.