RESIDENTS who live in an area described as "quiet" and "peaceful" have been rocked by the fatal stabbing of a 13-year-old boy.

The teenager was stabbed in Bugs Bottom fields, near St Barnabus Road, Emmer Green, yesterday (January 3).

The boy died of his injuries at the scene.

Four boys and one girl, all aged between 13 and 14 from Berkshire, have been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder and are in police custody.

For more details on the arrests click here.

Resident George Roberts, described the attack as "heartbreaking".

He said: "There are a lot of kids in the area and hopefully it's not someone I know.

"I never thought that a crime like this would happen here, it's usually quiet.

"We usually get some antisocial behaviour in the park, but nothing like this."

Others have also expressed their shock at the attack.

Dr Richard Pim works at Pim Chiropractic Clinic in Richmond Road, Caversham, near to where the attack took place.

He has spent 25 years in Caversham as a chiropractor.

He said: "It’s very shocking really.

"One doesn’t expect any of this on ones doorstep.

"My wife and I were walking there two days before.

"It’s quite a popular place with dog walkers.”

Thames Valley Police said the victim's next of kin are aware and are being supported by specially trained officers.

Diana, another resident, said: "I feel very sad for the families involved, its quite upsetting.

"I have probably seen the children playing in the park or cycling.

"I am feeling sorrow for the family.

"It's so upsetting for our community.

"This is a safe area, we've never had trouble before, its just quite shocking."

Reading East MP Matt Rodda added: "I just wanted to start by offering my deepest condolences to the boy’s family.

"This is an absolutely dreadful incident and you can’t imagine what his parents and other family must be going through.

"It really has shocked the local community."

READ ALSO: Murder investigation launched after teenager fatally stabbed in Reading

He continued: "Bugs Bottom is a quiet, peaceful place and people are genuinely shocked and taken aback that this has happened in the community.”

Mr Rodda is urging anybody with any information, however, small to contact TVP.

He explained: “The fact it has happened in broad daylight in a popular park in a quiet area makes it something that is particularly disturbing for many people."

People can call the 24-hour number 101 quoting incident reference 1069 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555 111.