A teenager is in a critical condition in hospital today after being stabbed by men in balaclavas near a hotel in Hayes.
The 17-year-old was treated by paramedics following the incident at 11.20pm last night near Easy Hotel in Brickfield Lane.
Two men are understood to have pushed the boy up against a fence and stabbed him while he was with a group of friends.
The pair, who were both wearing balaclavas, then ran down Brickfield Lane towards Harlington High Street.
Their victim, who is reported to be in a critical but stable condition, believes both men were black, with one wearing a black North Face body warmer.
Detectives from the Metropolitan Police's Trident command are investigating.
Detective Inspector Nick Murvin appealed for witnesses to come forward.
He said: "I would like to offer reassurance to anyone who may be worried about contacting police that they will be treated with the utmost sensitivity."
Anyone with information should call police on 020 8785 8580 on or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
