A YOUTH worker who was stabbed 14 times while trying to protect his son and other teenagers from a street gang has been nominated for a community award.
Simon Somerville, of Walthamstow, nearly died twice on the way to hospital after the attack by up to 30 youths in October.
The 42-year-old father-of-four was stabbed repeatedly in the chest and back by the gang after trying to protect his son, Sha, 16, and a group of other youngsters outside an anti-knife event in Deptford.
Mr Somerville, who is recovering after a lengthy spell in hospital, is now in line for a national Children's Champion trophy after being nominated by Sha.
The award - which is supported by Barnardo's, the Post Office and the News of the World newspaper - honours those who go that extra mile for young people across the UK.
A 16-year-old was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after the attack on Mr Somerville, while four others are accused of affray and grevious bodily harm.
For more information on Children's Champion, visit: childrenschamps.co.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here