Chelmsford students ROBBED AT KNIFEPOINT by 'men in balaclavas' while travelling to school

Hylands School has issued a warning to parents after the teenagers had their bikes stolen when approached by “young men in balaclavas with a knife”.

The students were confronted while travelling through Admirals Park which is only a short distance from the school.

Essex police are investigating the incident.

In an email sent out to all parents and guardians, Hylands School said: “Please ensure that you consider the safety of your child on their journey to and from school.

“We would advise that they do not go through Admirals Park at present.”

The UK has been suffering from a surge in knife crime violence in recent years, with attacks in England and Wales hitting record levels in 2018.

The Office of National Statistics said police recorded 40,829 offences involving knives or sharp instruments last year.

The figure was up 6 percent in 2017.

Essex police have been contacted for comment on this morning’s incident.

More to follow…