POLICE have charged a 14-year-old boy in connection with a stabbing in Grays.

Initially he was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder but faced Chelmsford Magistrates' Court today (Wednesday, 17 March) charged with GBH with intent.

A 15-year-old boy sustained stab wounds on King George's Field, known locally as Blackshots Field, near Jesmond Road, Grays, at about 5.15pm on Monday evening. The victim suffered serious but not life-threatening injuries and remains in hospital.

Ward councillors Ben Maney and Joy Redsell have spoken briefly about the incident, issuing a joint statement which says: "It goes without saying that we are appalled by the attack and wish the injured boy a swift recovery."

Cllr Maney added: "I have seen no evidence to suggest this is anything other than an isolated incident but it is only right that the police investigate whether it is linked to any other crimes.

"For now the police need to continue their investigation, but in the coming days Joy and I will want assurances from them. If there is a link between this attack and others, or any suggestion of an escalation in criminal activity, especially violent crime, we will also want to know what the police's response will be."

Police detective Jon Burgess said: "We know this incident has caused a substantial degree of concern within our community and let me reassure you our officers and local partner agencies are here to keep you safe and additional patrols will continue in the area.

"I would like to thank everyone who has come forward to speak to us so far and we would encourage anyone who has not yet spoken to us but who has information to come forward."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Grays CID quoting reference 42/45803/21. You can submit a report online here where you can use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am and 11pm.