Walney School: Stabbed schoolboy is out of hospital

Headteacher John Richardson said he was pleased the injured pupil was making a "rapid recovery"

A 15-year-old boy who was stabbed at school has left hospital.

Police said the student, who was treated for multiple stab wounds, was discharged from Alder Hey Hospital.

Emergency services were called to Walney School at 10:00 GMT on Tuesday. Head John Richardson said staff and pupils were "in shock".

A 16-year-old boy, also a pupil, who was arrested close to Barrow train station on suspicion of grievous bodily harm over the attack, is in custody.

'Upsetting incident'

Mr Richardson said he was pleased the injured pupil was making a "rapid recovery and being well supported by family and friends".

He added he had been "truly humbled" by his pupils.

"Their maturity and care for others in response to the upsetting incident yesterday has been exemplary and has seen the school environment return immediately to one that is calm and learning focused," he said.

Emergency services were called to the school on Tuesday morning

Counselling has been offered to pupils and the school says help will continue, with staff providing opportunities to discuss what happened and reassure students.

Nearby churches have also offered support to the local community and families affected by the attack.

St Mary's Church has offered a place for people "to pray, talk, or be still" and a local church leader has appealed for people to "stand beside each other" and "show love for the community".

Spring Mount Church, which is close to Walney School, has urged the community to "stand together"

Pastor Jonny Harrison from Spring Mount Church said: "There's shock and fear and our thoughts and prayers are with those affected.

"We need to be careful with anger and ensure that our focus is to love and try to bring peace where there is fear, because only love will drive out fear and hate."