London school placed on lockdown after stabbing - with attacker still on the loose

A school has been locked down following a nearby stabbing.

A man was attacked near New City College in Hornchurch, East London, at about 10.40am today.

Students and teachers were told to remain in their classrooms while pupils were not allowed to enter the premises.

Some parents believe their children were taken away from the grounds in an emergency evacuation.

The victim’s age has not been confirmed, and they were taken to hospital in an unknown condition.

The police have issued an urgent plea to trace the attacker who quickly left the scene.

A school spokesperson said: “We are investigating what happened and the college is currently on lockdown so no students can come in.”

A Met Police spokesperson said: "Police were called to Ardleigh Green Road, Hornchurch at approximately 10.41am on February 21 to reports of a male who had been stabbed.

"Officers and London Ambulance Service attended and the male, was taken to hospital for treatment – his condition awaits.

"No arrests; enquiries continue."