Camden News - by PAUL KEILTHY Published: 20 November 2008
Gangs ruled out in school brawl
POLICE have moved to defuse tensions following a school gate attack on Friday that left three boys in hospital by ruling out the involvement of gangs or inter-school rivalries. Three pupils at South Camden Community School needed treatment after the lunchtime clash at the school’s gates in Charrington Street, Somers Town, which involved at least 10 teenagers.
A 15 year-old had his nose broken and a 16-year-old needed treatment for head injuries, reportedly having been clubbed with a bottle.
Seven youths fled the scene by bike before emergency services arrived, according to the police.
Chalton Street resident Miranda Strick saw the aftermath of the attack. She said: “There was a crowd gathered round and though there didn’t seem to be
anybody on the ground there did seem to be a lot of people being
treated. “It’s strange to think that when you see an ambulance by a school you are relieved when you hear that it is ‘just’ some boys being treated for head injuries.”
A Met spokesman said yesterday (Wednesday) that inter-school rivalries and the involvement of gangs was not thought to be a factor. Sources in the area spoke of a row over a girl.
Witnesses should call 020 74041212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.