NEWS IN BRIEF

Teen Stabbed in 'Critical Condition'

A teenager is in a critical condition after being stabbed in the street in south London. The 14-year-old boy was attacked on Great Dover Street, Southwark, after an altercation with a group of youths, on Tuesday. Police attended the scene after 5pm and the boy was taken to Royal London hospital by air ambulance. It is understood he was stabbed twice in the stomach and once in the chest. Police say they are keeping "an open mind" as to any motive. Witnesses say the row spilled over from nearby football pitches and the victim was stabbed behind student halls on Great Dover Street. CCTV footage believed to have filmed the attack is being investigated. No arrests have yet been made over the attack.

Police Hunting Killer Offer Reward

A £20,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the person or persons responsible for the murder of a man. James Anthony Pounal, 51, was found dead at a property in Selden Walk, Andover Estate, Islington, on 21 January. Police were called by neighbours following concerns for his wellbeing. A Post Mortem revealed that Mr Pounal died of head injuries. It is understood that the last confirmed sighting of James was on New Year's Eve at 4.30pm when he withdrew a "substantial" amount of cash from the Abbey National Branch, Finsbury Park in the Seven Sisters Road, both over the counter and at the ATM outside. Police say that cash, his lap top computer and his mobile phone were all stolen from his address although there was no sign of forced entry. Detective Inspector Andy Chalmers said: "James was a private man, who lived alone and allowed few people into his house on the Andover Estate. It appears that he was murdered on or shortly after 31 December 2007. "We are very keen to identify anyone who could have been in contact with Mr Pounal about this time. In particular someone who may have changed their habits or unexpectedly come into money."

Police are keen to locate a Toshiba Satellite A200-195 laptop computer and a LG U8180 3G flip top mobile phone.

(DS)