THE public has been urged not to share video footage of an alleged knife attack which has been circulating on social media because it may prejudice any forthcoming trial. 

A video has emerged which appears to show the aftermath of the bloody attack in Quay Street, Worcester on Friday, including a male holding a knife and another male with a gaping wound to his face.

A 16-year-old boy appeared at Kidderminster Magistrates Court on Monday after two 18-year-old men suffered what police have described as 'potentially life-changing injuries'.

The youth, who cannot be identified, faces two charges of section 18 wounding with intent, possession of an offensive weapon and possession of cannabis following the alleged attack on Friday. No further action will be taken against a second youth.

The arrest of the suspect comes after a high profile campaign by West Mercia Police to get knives off the streets and provide education to the public about the dangers posed by blades.

Temporary Inspector Peter Nightingale said: "Operation Sceptre was recently conducted and a large variety of bladed articles were handed in to police in an amnesty. Please do not share any footage of violent incidents on social media as this may prejudice any future legal proceedings."

As previously reported, Operation Sceptre ran from Monday, April 26 to Sunday, May 2 with knife amnesty bins in place at police stations across the force area. These allow members of the public to dispose of unwanted knives safely in order to prevent them from finding their way onto the streets.

Overall, a total of over 378 knives and bladed weapons were surrendered throughout the week.

Four more found in weapons sweeps which are searches conducted in areas known for weapons being deposited. In South Worcestershire, which includes Worcester, Malvern and Evesham, 91 knives were handed in.

Officers across the force also carried out a number of other proactive activities in an effort to tackle knife crime, which included 35 visits to schools and colleges by officers to educate young people in the dangers of carrying a knife.

In addition, 78 retail engagements and operations were also carried out in partnership across the force as well as officers attending community meetings and conducting high visibility patrols, media events, town pop up stands, 265 leaflet drops, three warrants and 17 arrests.

Chief Superintendent Paul Moxley who is the force lead for Operation Sceptre, said: “West Mercia Police is totally committed to reducing the threat of knife crime within our communities and reducing the number of victims of knife crime.

“Operation Sceptre is a national week of action that highlights our work to tackle this crime type, however it is important to stress that our work continues beyond this week of action and our officers are working every day to reduce the number of knives being carried and the number of people being hurt by them.

“As always the public have an very import part to play in helping to keep knives off our streets. They can help us as an extra of eyes and ears in our fight against serious violence and knife crime, and by making a report to us you could help save a life.”

If you are worried that someone you know is carrying a knife, the police urge you to report it online via the website or call 101. The public is urged to dial 999 in an emergency.