POLICE have released CCTV images in connection with a stabbing in Orpington High Street earlier this year.

The images show three men going into Sainsbury’s supermarket in Orpington on December 2 attempting to purchase a knife. The group were turned away by staff.

Police say the trio then crossed the high street to Poundstretcher and succeeded in getting hold of a knife.

At 1.30pm on the same day a 16-year-old Orpington College student was knifed in the back further down the road.

He spent several days at the Princess Royal University Hospital in Farnborough recovering from his injuries.

Police have released the grainy images of the men in Orpington alongside pictures of a teenager they also want to trace in connection with the theft of two engagement rings on February 10.

On that occasion a man swiped the rings, worth £1,800, from Jarrette Jewellers in West Wickham High Street at around 4pm.

This Is Local London: ORPINGTON: Supermarket CCTV reveals trio linked to high street stabbing

Police say they want to speak to 19-year-old Stephen Seri, from Lewisham, in connection with the rings theft and the stabbbing. He is described as black, about 6ft with curly hair.

Bromley police’s Detective Inspector Jane Corrigan said: "This attack happened in a very busy high street so we're hoping to jog people's memories.

“Someone out there must recognise Stephen Seri and know where he hangs around.

"We're also hoping that someone will give us names for the other two individuals.”

Police describe the second stabbing suspect as a light skinned man who was wearing a light brown hooded top.

The third suspect is described as black, wearing a black hooded jacket and light blue jeans. Police say he had his arm in a sling.

Anyone with information about the suspects should contact Bromley police CID on 020 8284 8785 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.