Police are appealing for information after a 16-year-old boy was chased into a chicken shop by a gang of youths and stabbed.

The boy, who is in a critical state in hospital, ran into EFC takeaway in Burdett Road, near the junction with Dod Street in Limehouse before being attacked shortly after 9pm on Saturday.

He and a small group of friends were approached by the gang before being chased.

While the other managed to scatter, the boy – who lives locally – was pursued by three or four youths and stabbed.

He was taken by ambulance to an east London hospital.

DC Christina Jessah said: “We would urge anyone with any information or who witnessed the incident to come forward.”

Officers from Tower Hamlets Violent Crime Unit are investigating.

Information to 0207 275 4546 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.