The stabbing of a 16-year-old boy near Whitton Station on Wednesday has prompted a shocked reaction from the community.

The incident took place on Britannia Lane in the evening, with police and ambulance services being called to the scene at 6.25pm to find a 16-year-old with stab injuries.

The victim was rushed to hospital as emergency services, including armed police, descended on an area typically seen as one of the safest in London.

Whitton ward councillor, Liz Jaeger, also deputy council leader and cabinet member for housing and community safety, said: “Your local councillors were all very shocked to hear about a stabbing at Whitton Station in the Wednesday evening rush hour.

“Such incidents are thankfully very uncommon in our part of London, which makes this all the more alarming, and we share the community's concerns.

"We hear a man was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, and police enquiries are ongoing to find the suspect. It is too early to be able to say much more, but in my role as the council member for community safety, I will be following developments closely.

"Meanwhile, our thoughts are with the victim and we hope he makes a speedy recovery."

The sole suspect reportedly ran into the station, fleeing on the railway tracks.

Officers, including the Met’s Dog Unit, searched the area extensively but no one was found.

The incident took place around the corner from the station on Britannia Lane, near the junction with Constance Road.

Commuters watched events unfold, as train services were suspended between Hounslow and Twickenham until 9pm.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting CAD6393/05SEP or Tweet @MetCC.

Information can also be reported to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.