Mother's tribute to gang stab boy

Robert Spence died from a single stab wound to the heart

The mother of a 17-year-old boy killed in a street fight in Reading has paid tribute to her "hard working" son.

Robert Spence, from Burghfield Common, died in hospital after the fight, which police believe was between two gangs, in the St Mary's Butts area on Friday.

Post-mortem tests revealed he died from a single stab wound to the heart. Two other men injured in the fight remain in hospital.

Sandra Blake said her son, who she called Junior, was not a trouble maker.

She said: "He was a hard working boy, very helpful and always smiling.

"He wasn't a trouble maker. He was well mannered and respectful to others."

Detectives said they are continuing to appeal for witnesses and information about the fatal stabbing.

Supt Steve Kirk, of Thames Valley Police, said: "I would urge anyone who was in this area of Reading at the time, anyone who witnessed the fight or anyone who has any information to get in contact urgently."