A public meeting with the police in Barnes is being held this evening amid rising concerns about youngsters being targeted by muggers for phones, valuables and even designer label clothing.

The Police Liaison Group event is being held at 7pm at the Castlenau centre, Stillingfleet Road, and a large attendance is expected.

The police have confirmed that known criminals are crossing over Hammersmith into Barnes to target youngsters.

A video was posted on social media recently of a 12-year-old schoolboy being targeted by a much larger individual who raced up behind him, threw him to the ground and went through his pockets before racing off.

This was just one of many recent incidents where youngsters being threatened and robbed.

A video was posted on social media recently of a 12-year-old schoolboy being targeted by a much larger individual

The gangs involved have also been targeting adults. On May 19, someone reported another incident on social media, saying; "Another mugging just happened now c00:45am by Hammersmith Bridge, Barnes side. Man's watch and phone stolen - jumped by 4-5 guys."

Residents have been horrified by the attacks and have discussed setting up citizen patrols to protect children. Separately, some are telling children to 'dress down' – not wearing expensive jackets and trainers – so they are not a target.

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Local councillor, Cllr Marjory Millum, has urged residents to attend the meeting the evening..

She said: "I implore residents to come to this meeting to discuss this appalling crime in person with the police.

"Many residents are very concerned about the mugging of a schoolboy last week.

"The Police Liaison Group has invited one of the co- founders of the Stay Safe project, which helps young people on how to stay safe. Anyone who has teenage children come and bring their children."