The principal of Richmond College has paid tribute to the 18-year-old student who tragically died in a stabbing on nearby playing fields this week.

Dr Jason Jones said the college community is 'hurting' over the death of Hazrat Wali, who had a bright future.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim and his family and friends at this difficult time,' he said.

"Hazrat had a bright future ahead of him. His friends and staff at the College will remember him fondly as a bright and polite young man, well-liked by staff and his close-knit group of friends.

Dr Jones said: "This loss is sure to raise many emotions, concerns, and questions for our students, parents, staff and local community. "The College community is hurting but we will continue to do everything that we can to support our students, staff and families during this traumatic time."

The police have arrested a 16-year-old in connection with the killing on Craneford Way playing fields, Twickenham, on Tuesday afternoon.

The College has implemented its Emergency Response Plan, which is designed to provide assistance to students. This includes enhanced security and additional resources to the Student Services team who are providing support and counselling to students and staff.

Dr Jones said: "Safety remains our number one prority and we will continue to do all we can to keep our students safe at our college. To that end, we have enhanced security and surveillance at our entrances."

Inspector Jon McLoughlin, who is responsible for Neighbourhood policing in Richmond borough, said: "I am very much aware of the community concern following this tragic incident. Officers have been out conducting high visibility foot patrols in the vicinity of Richmond upon Thames College. These patrols will continue for the rest of the week to provide reassurance to students and local community.

"We are also working closely with the College, their security team and the council to ensure that students and the local community can feel safe at all times."

Council leader, Gareth Roberts, offered reassurance to worried residents saying: "I understand that this incident has left many residents shaken, however it's important to remember that this is a safe borough and incidents such as this are incredibly rare in Richmond upon Thames. This Council stands ready to work with all partners to do what we can to eliminate knife crime in this borough."

The Twickenham MP, Munira Wilson MP, added: "I would firstly like to extend my deepest condolences to all the family and friends of Hazrat. My thoughts are with all those affected by this tragic and shocking incident.

"I know many local residents are understandably extremely concerned regarding safety in the area and knife crime. The police have significantly stepped up patrols in the area and will continue to do so for the next few days. I have urged them to continue doing so beyond this week and I will continue to work with the police, the Council, the college and local schools to tackle youth violence, knife crime and anti-social behaviour in our area."