A BOY of 16 was stabbed after being chased by a gang of hooded and masked teenagers.

He was targeted by the gang in the Silverhill area of St Leonards outside Pizza GoGo.

He was then chased to London Road where he sought refuge in the High Spirits convenience store before the group forced the glass in the door and stabbed him in the lower leg.

The group of men and boys, aged 16-19, were dressed in dark clothing, mostly in coats and some had their faces completely covered while others used hoods to cover their heads. Several of the group were carrying weapons.

The victim, who lives in the town, received a deep cut to one of his calf muscles and needed urgent hospital treatment, for which he was later discharged.

The attack happened on Monday, November 28, between 9.30pm and 10pm, and police are now appealing for witnesses.

Detective Constable Chloe Barden said: "This was a terrifying ordeal for the victim who was chased from one shop to another and finally stabbed by a large group of males.

"This would have been very alarming for any members of the public watching it as well and we would ask anyone who saw this incident to contact us."

Ethan Fuller, 18, from Bristol Road, St Leonards, has been charged with GBH with intent, criminal damage and possession of an offensive weapon and remanded to appear before Lewes Crown Court on Friday, January 6.

A boy, 17, from Hastings, has been charged with GBH with intent, criminal damage and possession of an offensive weapon and remanded to appear at the same court on the same day.

A boy, 17, from Bexhill, has been charged with GBH with intent and criminal damage and bailed to appear before Hastings Youth Court on Tuesday, December 20.

A 19-year-old man from St Leonards, was arrested on suspicion of GBH with intent, criminal damage and possession of an offensive weapon. He was questioned and bailed until Thursday, January 5.

There are still other suspects outstanding and police continue enquiries to locate and arrest them.

Call 101 quoting serial 1407 of 28/11 or call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.