DETECTIVES hunting the killers of an Edmonton teenager have said they are pleased with the response to last night's Crimewatch appeal.

The BBC programme featured a reconstruction of the murder of 15-year-old Negus McClean, who was stabbed to death in Westminster Road on April 10, as well as emotional interviews with his mother and sister.

Police are now offering a £20,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for killing the Edmonton County School pupil, who was stabbed in the chest and thigh by a gang of seven young men after stepping in to stop his younger brother's phone being stolen.

Fighting back tears, his mother Ingrid told the show: “Telling is brother to run and not look back is just him – he wouldn't have thought twice about himself, he was just thinking about protecting his brother.”

By the end of last night's programme, police had received more than 40 calls from the public about the case.

Detective Chief Inspector Stephen Clayman, who is leading the investigation, said: “We are extremely pleased with the response we have had as a result of the Crimewatch appeal.

“We are very grateful to those people who have had the courage to come forward so far. If you are thinking of getting in touch you are not alone, others are coming forward too.  “Officers can meet you discreetly. Your information will be treated sensitively and in the strictest of confidence.”

Detectives have arrested 12 people, aged between 16 and 20, in connection with murder. All of them have been released on bail.

Police are particularly interested in anyone who saw one of the suspects who was wearing a dark coloured hooded jumper with a large 'Franklin and Marshall' logo on the front.

Anyone with information should call the incident room on 0208 345 3775, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The Enfield Independent has launched the Don't Carry, Don't Kill campaign to fight back against the spread of gang culture and campaign for a mandatory six-month jail sentence for anyone caught carrying a knife. Click here for the campaign's homepage.