A man has been charged as police say they are treating a knife attack outside a shop as a "hate crime".

Gabriel Abdullah, 34, of Hamilton Road, Golders Green, was charged earlier today (January 30) with affray and possession of bladed article in a public place.

He was arrested after the Metropolitan Police received reports of a man with a knife in Hamilton Road just before 1.30pm yesterday (January 29).

Police say they are investigating the incident as a hate crime.

Chief Superintendent Sara Leach, who is responsible for policing in the area, said: "Yesterday's incident in Golders Green has understandably caused significant concern and left our Jewish communities shaken.”

She added that officers were on the scene within six minutes and were able to arrest the suspect within ten minutes of being called.

Chief Supt Leach also paid tribute to members of the public who “bravely intervened” before officers arrived.

Police have said the investigation is not terror-related but that patrols will be increased in Golders Green in light of the incident.

Abdullah is next expected to appear in custody at Willesden Green Magistrates’ Court.