Warning: graphic image below

A 16-year-old boy who slashed another teenager in the face with a knife has been sentenced to three years in custody.

The unprovoked attack happened in Grovelands Park, West Molesey, when the victim was out with his friends and was approached by two teenage boys.

One of the boys slashed him across the face, leaving him with a deep wound to his lip and cheek.

The attacker, who cannot be named because of his age, was sentenced on Monday (June 12) at Kingston Crown Court.

In a statement read out in court, the victim described the effect the attack that happened around 3pm on April 5 has had on him.

He said: “The scar on my face is a constant reminder of what has happened and it always makes me think of that day.

"I wasn’t expecting anything like this to happen to me. Having this scar on my face makes me feel like people are judging me and have the wrong impression of me.

“I feel like when I apply for jobs and go for interviews my scar will cause employers to judge me and make me feel like a bad person.

“This has also caused a lot of stress on my family.”

Detective Constable Sally Michail, from North Surrey CID, said: “This was a horrific unprovoked attack which has left a young boy with a permanent scar and reminder on his face.

“The wound inflicted was around four to five inches deep and required numerous stitches.

“Behaviour like this will not be tolerated in our communities and we will take action against those who cause harm to others and those who carry knifes.

“Carrying a knife is not a form of protection and can have the most serious consequences. By carrying a knife, you are not only putting others in danger but you are also putting yourself in significant danger.”

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The victim was left with a wound to his cheek and lip