A teenager who appeared to be armed with a knife tried to mug two boys on their way to school in attempted robberies just minutes apart.

The first victim, a 15-year-old boy, was approached by a teenager in Mintern Street, Hoxton, at around 8am on November 9.

Police said that the schoolboy was told to hand over his phone and was shown what appeared to be “a weapon”.

Shortly afterwards, he approached a 12-year-old boy nearby, suggesting he had a knife, in an attempt to take his phone.

Both victims are believed to be students at City of London Academy Shoreditch Park.

On both occasions nothing was taken and no injuries were reported.

Police have now arrested a 15-year-old boy on suspicion of attempted robbery. He has been bailed pending further enquiries.

A spokesperson for City of London Academy Shoreditch Park, said that the school was aware of “some concerning incidents”.

They stressed that these took place “away from the locality around the academy” which they said is supervised by senior staff every day, before and after school.

The spokesperson added: “To help address these issues and support the school community we have been working with Hackney who are developing a wider Safe Routes to School initiative across the borough. 

“We have also been liaising closely with police, who have committed to providing greater street presence in the area, and raising awareness with students and parents to support their safety in the wider community.”