YOUNG people were afraid to speak at a meeting about gang culture because they feared entering the wrong postcode.

London Mayor Boris Johnson hosted a meeting with residents at the Epicentre in West Street, Leytonstone, to discuss youth violence.

He was told by residents that there was a big problem with violence related to territory in the borough.

One said a group of young people from Leyton were due to speak at the event but refused to attend as they feared for their safety if they entered Leytonstone.

Mr Johnson said: “I am aware that you consider the issue of serious youth violence and what is happening to our young people as the most critical issue facing us right now.

“I share that concern. Serious youth violence is taking the most dreadful toll.

“We don't have all the answers, and want to hear directly from local people who are confronted with these issues every day. We have much to learn.”

Mr Johnson encouraged men from the area to sign up to his mentoring programme, which aims to match black boys aged 10 to 16 at risk of offending with suitable mentors.

The programme already has 35 people signed up from Waltham Forest to mentor youngsters. Another 19 signed up on the night.

There was an upsurge in gang-related violence across Waltham Forest in the summer months.