Tavis Spencer-Aitkens death: Family appeal for end to violence

Police said they believe Tavis Spencer-Aitkens, 17, was targeted by his attackers

The family of a teenage twin who was stabbed to death have said "the violence has got to stop before it breaks even more hearts".

Tavis Spencer-Aitkens, 17, of Pownall Road, Ipswich, was attacked in Packard Avenue in the town at about 16:50 BST on Saturday. He died later in hospital.

Mother Sharon Box and and stepmother Helen Forbes appealed for witnesses.

This afternoon armed police sealed off roads in the Whitehouse area, Ipswich, in connection with the inquiry.

Prime Minister Theresa May said she was "deeply concerned" about the case after it was raised by Ipswich MP Sandy Martin at Prime Minister's Questions.

They faced the cameras at a press conference at Suffolk Police headquarters in Martlesham on Wednesday, with a photo of Tavis and his twin brother Tyler on the table in front of them.

His mother, who was too upset to speak, had her words read by a family liaison officer.

She said the loss of Tavis had "devastated" the family.

"Tavis was our world," she said. "He meant everything to us. We will remember him as having a lovely soul.

Tributes have been left at the spot on Packard Avenue where the teenager was stabbed

"He was cheeky, outgoing, he loved his drill music and was a talented footballer. He was truly loved and is truly missed."

She said he was taken "unnecessarily, needlessly and cruelly" and his family is "heartbroken".

His step-mother Helen Forbes, who sat beside his mother, began to read her own statement before having to let a family liaison officer take over, wiping tears from her eyes.

A photo of Tavis (on the right) and his twin brother Tyler was placed on a table at the press conference

She added: "The violence has got to stop before it breaks even more hearts, just like it has broken mine."

Five men, aged 16, 18, 20, 22 and 41, have been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder and remain in custody for questioning.

A 36-year-old woman from Essex was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and has now been released under investigation while inquiries continue.

Officers are appealing for anyone with CCTV, dash cam or mobile phone footage, who were in the area of Queen's Way, Packard Avenue, Rands Way or Kingsway, between midday and 7.45pm on Saturday to make contact.

Anyone with information is asked to call Suffolk Police.