Murder investigation after London's 29th fatal stabbing this year

Police are appealing for witnesses after a 23-year-old man was fatally stabbed in London - the 29th incident of its kind this year.

Officers were called just after 8.30pm on Thursday to a south-east London hospital after the victim - who had been stabbed in the neck - was taken in by a friend.

Despite the extensive efforts of medical staff he died from his injuries later that evening.

The attack took place in the Plumstead area of south-east London, possibly near the railway station, police said.

After the stabbing, the man, who is yet to be formally identified, called his friend who collected him in his car and took him to hospital.

The victim's next of kin has been informed.

Detective Chief Inspector Richard Leonard, of the Homicide and Major Crime Command, who is leading the investigation, said: "This investigation is in its very early stages and we are still piecing together exactly where and how the victim was attacked.

"Were you in the Plumstead area last night? Did you witness a commotion or altercation, or see anything that seemed unusual, like a person or group of people running in the area? Any fragment of information is useful to our investigation and I would urge you to call police immediately."

Anyone with information is asked to contact 0208 721 4805, or call police on 101 quoting ref 7434/29 March.

Alternatively information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers via 0800 555 111.