Neighbours living close to the scene of a stabbing in the Great Ashby area of Stevenage have spoken of their shock following last night’s events.

A 17-year-old boy was stabbed in the leg in Mendip Way at about 11.45pm, and has since been taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Two others – a man and a woman who had a dog with them – were also potentially injured in the incident, before reportedly leaving the scene via Whitehorse Lane and heading to Quantock Close and Lomond Way.

Police have described the pair – which may have then left the area in a vehicle – as white and of medium build, and have shut part of Mendip Way while investigations continue.

Officers have stressed this is not believed to be a random incident, but two people living close to the crime scene have raised safety concerns after a man was stabbed outside a house in nearby Cherwell Drive in May.

A woman who lives in Mendip Way but does not wish to be named said: “I was really shocked to wake up this morning and hear news of a stabbing just metres away from where I live. It’s really horrible and unsettling.

“Great Ashby is a nice quiet area with a really strong community and so you don’t expect this type of thing to happen. I hope the victim is OK and makes a full recovery.”

Another woman from the street, who also asked to remain anonymous, said: “I can’t believe it – it’s such a quiet road.

“I’m a bit worried if this type of crime is going on here, what with the other stabbing in Great Ashby earlier this year too.

“I hope police step up their game and find out what happened, and find a way to prevent further incidents in the future.”

Investigating officer Insp James Lant said: “I would like to reassure people that this is not believed to be a random incident.

“We are aware that two further people are likely to have been injured and are concerned for their welfare. We are urging them to come forward as soon as possible to enable them to receive medical treatment.

“It is believed the man may have an injury to his foot and the woman may have an injury to her hand. If anyone becomes aware of someone who appears to have sustained such injuries, they are asked to contact police as soon as possible.

“We would also like to speak to anyone else who may have witnessed what happened or who has any information about the incident to get in contact with us as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information should contact police via the non-emergency number 101 or dial 999 in an emergency. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through their anonymous online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.