A Swindon teenager who stabbed two other teenagers has been locked up for three years and eight months.

The 14-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, pleaded guilty to two Section 18 GBH charges relating to stabbings in Swindon and Royal Wootton Bassett at Swindon Crown Court on Friday.

The first incident happened at the Link Centre in Swindon on October 29, 2022, when a 14-year-old boy suffered life-changing injuries to his arms.

The second took place in Royal Wootton Bassett on New Year’s Day 2023 when a 15-year-old boy suffered serious but not life-changing injuries.

It is believed his incarceration is taking place at a youth offender's institute.

Speaking after the sentencing, Supt Phil Staynings, who leads on Partnership, Prevention and Neighbourhoods in Swindon, said: “These are two awful incidents where two teenagers in our community have suffered serious knife injuries at the hands of the defendant.

“I understand it is worrying to see people of such a young age being involved in knife crime, and I would urge our youth to consider the choices they are making when they become involved in gang-related violence and start carrying knives.

“You are not only putting others and the people around you, such as your family, at risk, but you’re also putting yourself at great risk of harm by being involved in that lifestyle.

“Carrying knives can have an impact that lasts a lifetime, and while walking away is often the hardest thing to do, it is the safest.

“I would encourage young people involved in that lifestyle to not be afraid to ask for help because there are people out there who can help you.”

Supt Staynings went on to highlight the various tactics that the Force is currently employing across the county to combat knife crime and to deter people from carrying knives.

“We understand the significant community impact that knife crime is having in our communities, both in Swindon and across Wiltshire, at present," he said.

“We are already undertaking a huge amount of work both on the streets and behind the scenes to get to the root of the problem, which we understand is blighting the lives of many residents at present.

“This work includes doing presentations in schools to educate pupils on the dangers of carrying knives, and bringing several of our partners together to create a public health partnership action plan.”