POLICE have revealed that three men wanted in connection with a stabbing in Orpington tried to buy knives from a supermarket before the attack.

A 16-year-old Orpington College student was stabbed once in the back at around 1.30pm in Orpington High Street yesterday (December 2) and police are now hunting three men who fled the scene.

Officers have disclosed that a trio of men matching the suspects' descriptions tried to buy knives from Sainsbury’s in Orpington before the stabbing but were turned away by suspicious staff.

Detective Inspector Jane Corrigan said: "This incident could have been much worse if it was not for the vigilance of the staff in Sainsbury's.

“Three males, matching the suspects’ descriptions, attempted to purchase knives in the store shortly beforehand but were refused.

“The staff's professionalism, not only in refusing the sale but in documenting the negative sale, is assisting us greatly in our inquiries.”

The victim is currently in a stable condition after being taken to the Princess Royal University Hospital in Farnborough.

A knife, believed to have been used in the attack, was found in nearby Homefield Rise.

Police say they are looking for three black youths aged about 18 years. They are believed to have fled down Homefield Rise and then down Gravel Pitt Way towards Spur Road.

The first youth was wearing a black jacket with red horizontal lines and a beige hood.

A second youth was also wearing a black jacket with a small white motif on the left hand side and a black hood.

He was also wearing light blue jeans and had his arm in a sling.

The third youth was wearing a black jacket and black trousers.

Anyone with information should call 01689 981212 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.