BRAVE people who tried to stop knife-wielding attackers from robbing a mobile phone have been branded heroes by an eyewitness.

Charlotte Wright, from Colchester, was walking to work when three people were stabbed as members of the public tried to intervene during the terrifying encounter in central London.

Witnesses, including the 26-year-old, reported seeing a group of two or three masked knifemen attacking a pedestrian just before 10am in Bishopsgate.

Courageous members of the public, who were described as “heroes” by Ms Wright, then stepped in during a brave attempt to stop the attackers.

The administrator, who works near the scene, said: “I was walking into my office at about 9.45am and saw a load of ambulances coming by me, which was unusual.

Gazette: Attack - three people were taken to hospital Picture: James Manning/PAAttack - three people were taken to hospital Picture: James Manning/PA (Image: James Manning/PA)

“There was a crowd around the area. It seemed like a sombre atmosphere, there was a lot of chatting and confusion.

“My brother then sent me an article explaining what had happened, and I realised what I saw.”

She added: “When I got the text from my brother, I thought ‘Oh my God, that’s way more serious than I could have imagined’.

“I feel a bit apprehensive and scared coming out to get my lunch, but also pretty secure and safe.

“I know London is a very busy city and I know that if anything were to happen, unfortunately like the guys that stepped in during this incident, there are heroes willing to do that.”

Gazette: Treatment - Medical equipment at the scene Picture: James Manning/PATreatment - Medical equipment at the scene Picture: James Manning/PA (Image: James Manning/PA)

A 25-year-old man was arrested in Islington, north London, on Monday morning on suspicion of conspiracy to commit robbery, grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of an offensive weapon.

He remains in custody.

Temporary Detective Chief Inspector Colin Bishop, of City of London Police major crime team, said the man was arrested by detectives investigating “a number of serious offences connected with the attempted robbery and knife attack” last Thursday.

The victims were left needing hospital treatment but did not suffer life-threatening injuries.

Detectives are now appealing for witnesses to come forward in a bid to catch the others involved.

City of London Police has stated the attack is not being treated as terror related.