A gang of thugs who stabbed a 70-year-old shopkeeper during an attempted raid in Walthamstow have been jailed.

David Smith, 21, of Valognes Avenue, Walthamstow and two 14-year-olds, who cannot be named for legal reasons, were sentenced on Friday (October 7) at Snaresbrook Crown Court.

The three admitted attempting to rob the Premier convenience store in Carr Road on the evening of Sunday, April 17 this year.

CCTV pictures showed the gang entering the store, before attacking shopkeeper Suntharalingham Sockalingam as he tried to defend his business.

Mr Sockalingam received stab wounds and a punctured lung during the attack, while his wife and two customers watched on.

Although the shopkeeper was initially left fighting for his life, he has since made a full recovery from his injuries.

All three of his attackers admitted taking part in the robbery at a court appearance in August. Smith also pleaded guilty to wounding with intent.

He was sentenced to nine years behind bars for his part in the attack. One of the boys was given an 18-month youth rehabilitation order, while the other received a 24-month order.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Elle Madden, from Waltham Forest CID said: "This was a horrific attack on a hard-working pensioner who was simply trying to run his shop.

"The offenders used an extreme level of violence against an elderly man who was trying to defend himself, his wife, his customers and his business.

"The attack could have resulted in tragic consequences and it is only through good fortune that the victim is now physically recovering.

“The victim and his family continue to deal with the consequences of this attack.

"I'd like to thank the victim and his family for their courage in helping us with this investigation and also to the local community for their support, which I know has been greatly appreciated by the victim.

“We hope this sentence will give them some peace and closure."