A Carshalton art gallery is opening its doors as a "safe space" for worried children walking home after a violent week.
On Thursday (January 30), there was an armed police stand-off in Bramblewood Close and a stabbing in nearby Green Wrythe Lane.
After a six-hour standoff when called at 8.45am, a man was arrested on suspicion of firearms offences.
The victim of the stabbing on Green Wrythe Lane at 11.30am was later revealed to be a 17-year-old boy, who is currently fighting for his life.
Following these events, key member Emma James is now offering the Vellum Mill Gallery, on 76a Mill Lane, as a space to schoolchildren who feel scared or worried while walking home.
Emma and her husband Stuart, one of the artists, will provide help for the kids, including making phone calls home.
As parents themselves, Emma and Stuart want to help their children in any way possible and encourage anyone who needs help to come in.
In a statement on Facebook, Emma posted: “In light of recent events yesterday in Carshalton, please let your children know that Vellum Mill Gallery, Carshalton, is a safe space.
“If they are walking home and get scared, if they're worried, for any reason, come in here.
“We will make sure they get home safely, call parents, whatever we have to do, but never be afraid to pop in if you need help of any kind.
“We are parents and will keep them safe.”
