FIVE teenagers and a woman have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a teenager was stabbed.

Witnesses reported hearing screams after a 16-year-old was injured in May Avenue, Canvey, on Friday night.

The victim was walking down the street with another teenager when they were approached by a group of boys and girls.

One teenager was stabbed three times and the second boy was punched in the face before he managed to escape in a passing taxi.

A woman who lives in the street and asked not to be named said: “It was the worst thing I have ever seen.

“I was inside with my little boy when I heard lots of young girls screaming and crying.

“The community first responder was there within seconds helping him along with neighbours and my partner who went down to see if there was anything he could do.

“The boy was conscious and asking for water. He had been stabbed in the bottom of his back and in his side near his armpit.

“The ambulance and police turned up shortly after and it was all cornered off for the forensic team.

“I saw the young boy being loaded into the ambulance.

“I hope he makes a speedy recovery.”

It is understood the boy was taken to the Royal London Hospital where he underwent surgery.

He remains in hospital and his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

Police believe the victims had been attending a large party in the area before the incident.

Officers have since arrested six people on suspicion of attempted murder.

Five boys aged between 15 and 17 and a 24-year-old woman, all from Canvey, were all in police custody for questioning as the Echo went to print last night.

Anyone with information is asked to call Basildon CID on 101 quoting 1668 of 13/07.

Alternatively, you can contact crimefighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information