ESCALATING violence between gangs in Penge and Lewisham has prompted police to release CCTV pictures of suspects.

Lewisham police released 18 images to News Shopper, on Monday, in the hope our readers can identify the warring teens before someone is seriously injured or killed.

One teenager was stabbed during the battle between a gang from Lewisham and another from Penge outside a

McDonald's High Street fast food restaurant. A dozen youths, aged between 15 and 20, had bought some food. Less than 20 minutes later another gang ran into the restaurant shouting "Penge, Penge" and a fight broke out.

The violence lasted five minutes, during which one youth was stabbed and was taken to Lewisham Hospital for treatment and later discharged.

Police believe the fight was related to another clash two weeks earlier between two youths outside the Riverdale Centre, in Lewisham.

Lewisham Sector Inspector Mark Chatfield said: "We will not tolerate such outbreaks of gang violence. We intend to bring these youths to justice.

"The public can play a major role in enabling us to do this and I appeal for their support.

"CCTV caught this incident on camera. It demonstrates how effective the system can be and will hopefully deter behaviour like this in the future."

McDonald's press officer Jacqui Moore said: "The safety of our customers and staff is of paramount importance.

"Thankfully none of our staff or customers were injured.

"We will continue to work with the police and other traders."

If you recognise any of the youngsters pictured at 4.30pm on Easter Monday, call PC Emma Wells at Ladywell police station on 020 8284 8304 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.