THE MOTHER of a 16-year-old boy who was stabbed to death last year says her heart goes out to the grieving family of Ben Hitchcock.

Ben, also 16, died after he was stabbed during a fight in Southend Road, Beckenham, on June 23.

The Kelsey Park Sports College pupil was taken to Lewisham Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

His mother, Lee Hitchcock, described her son as "the most loving boy that ever walked this Earth".

Michelle Jeacock's son, Julian "Buster" Knight, bled to death in her arms after being stabbed yards from his home in Lensbury Way, Thamesmead, on July 15 last year.

Stelios Paraschakis, of Rushdene, Abbey Wood, was convicted of his murder during a trial at the Old Bailey.

The 19-year-old was jailed for life, with a recommendation he serves at least 18 years.

Mrs Jeacock said: "My heart goes out to Ben's family at this time.

"We know the pain is unbearable. Losing Buster has destroyed our lives.

"My family is calling on the Government to impose a zero tolerance policy against violent crimes."

She added: "It is another senseless murder of a young teenager and it seems to go on all the time now."

The family has launched a petition which people can sign by visiting petitionthem.com and searching for "Busta".

A post-mortem examination at the Princess Royal University Hospital, Farnborough, revealed the cause of Ben's death was a stab wound to his abdomen.

Up to 40 youths are thought to have taken part in the fight, which began after a party.

One of the many messages left at the scene includes one from his mother.

It says: "You were our shining star and our love for you can't be measured.

"We miss you now and always."

One from Lilly C says: "You were a true Penge Block soldier who fighted for Penge and his boys. Everyone will miss you. Love to Jake and Louis. God bless."

Police recovered a number of knives and bricks from the scene.

Anyone with information should call the incident room on 020 8721 4961.

Fourteen youths, aged between 13 and 16 and including one girl, have been arrested and bailed in connection with the investigation into Ben's murder.

They are due to return to a south London police station on August 8.