A LABOUR councillor was stabbed near his home in Newbury Park last night.


Councillor Ross Hatfull, 33, who represents Valentines Ward, was attacked by muggers near his home in Kimberley Avenue at around 11.35pm.

He was approached by two Asian men aged between 17-22 who demanded his wallet and phone.

When he attempted to run away, Cllr Hatfull was chased and stabbed.


He was taken to the Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel, but Deputy Leader of Redbridge’s Labour Group Wes Streeting, said his colleague had since been discharged.


Cllr Streeting added: “Ross was a victim of a mugging last night.


“Fortunately it seems his attackers missed his vital organs.


“This is an awful thing to have happened, especially in his own neighbourhood.


“Hopefully he’ll make a speedy recovery.”

A spokesman for Redbridge Police confirmed the attack was being investigated.

He added that police were investigating another attack, which they believe is linked, in nearby Glebelands Avenue which took place ten minutes later.

In the second incident a 25-year-old man was approached by a group of four Asian males, one of whom was armed with a knife.

The gang threatened the man and stole his mobile phone and MP3 player.

The suspects walked off on foot towards the A12.

Det. Insp. Craig Robinson of Ilford Robbery Squad said:"This type of robbery where knives are used and the victim is stabbed are very rare in Redbridge.

"These individuals clearly pose a danger to the public and I would urge anyone who has any information to contact us."

Anybody who has any information is urged to contact Ilford Robbery Squad on 0208 345 2653 or Crime Stoppers on 0800 555111

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