The son of celebrated BBC radio host Simon Mayo has been sentenced to prison following a shocking knife attack in an affluent area of London.
William Mayo, 22, was handed a four-year sentence at the Old Bailey after pleading guilty to grievous bodily harm and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.
Violent altercation in Barnes
The incident occurred on the evening of 5th October in Barnes, southwest London, when Mayo became involved in a heated argument that escalated into violence. Witnesses reported seeing Mayo brandishing a knife before attacking another young man.
Police were called to the scene following multiple 999 calls from concerned residents who reported seeing a violent altercation near Barnes Pond.
Emergency response and arrest
Metropolitan Police officers arrived within minutes to find the victim, a 21-year-old local man, suffering from serious stab wounds. He was rushed to hospital where he underwent emergency surgery.
Mayo was arrested at the scene after being restrained by bystanders. The court heard how the attack appeared to be unprovoked, with CCTV footage showing Mayo approaching the victim aggressively.
Family connections to media
The case has drawn significant attention due to William Mayo's famous father, Simon Mayo, a well-respected broadcaster who has worked for BBC Radio 2, BBC Radio 5 Live and currently hosts on Greatest Hits Radio.
In a statement read to the court, Simon Mayo expressed his family's shock and remorse about the incident, describing it as "completely out of character" for his son.
Sentencing remarks
Judge Sarah Munro QC described the attack as "a serious example of knife crime" that had left the victim with life-changing injuries. She noted that while Mayo had no previous convictions, the severity of the offence demanded immediate custody.
The judge stated: "This was a sustained attack with a lethal weapon in a public place. The courts have a duty to protect the public from such dangerous behaviour."
Growing concern over knife crime
The case comes amid growing concern about knife crime in London, particularly involving young people. Police statistics show a 15% increase in knife-related offences in the capital compared to the previous year.
Local MP Sarah Olney commented: "This tragic incident highlights the urgent need for more youth services and early intervention programmes to prevent such violence."
Meanwhile, the victim continues his recovery, with family members saying he faces a long rehabilitation process.
